ENG vs NZ: Andrew Flintoff Looks Unrecognizable As He Coaches England's ODI Team 9 Months After Car Crash
Published - 09 Sep 2023, 02:57 PM | Updated - 23 Aug 2024, 09:47 AM
Former all-rounder Andrew Flintoff returned to the England coaching staff for the first time after sustaining a horrific accident in December last year. Andrew Flintoff joined the national team’s coaching staff to help the players prepare for the four-game ODI series against New Zealand.
Andrew Flintoff faced a serious accident while filming for the BBC’s Top Gear, leading to broken ribs and facial injuries. He had to be airlifted to a hospital after crashing a car at the Dunsfold Park Aerodrome in Surrey. He narrowly escaped a fatal outcome despite the severity of the accident.
Andrew Flintoff Spotted First Time After Nine Months
Nine months after his accident, Andrew Flintoff was spotted taking charge of fielding drills during England’s one-day match in Cardiff. He can be seen wearing an England bucket hat while interacting with the coaching staff and overseeing fielding drills before the first ODI against New Zealand.
The 45-year-old was seen conversing with bowling coach David Saker as they left the field. The former cricketer was photographed sitting with players Joe Root and Ben Stokes on the balcony. He is assisting the team as an unpaid consultant despite not being officially part of the coaching staff.
Andrew Flintoff?
In yesterday's game between Eng and NZ Freddie made his first appearance since his accident in Dec 2022 and I couldn't recognise him.
He is a superstar on and off the field and an absolute legend, hope he returns at his best and do well in TV❤️????????#ENGvNZ pic.twitter.com/7O8xMJqrSo
— Rajiv (@Rajiv1841) September 9, 2023
He’s Obviously An England Legend – Jos Butter
Jos Buttler, England’s white-ball skipper, stated that Andrew Flintoff has joined the team in an observational capacity without any specific role. Buttler said that Flintoff’s presence allows players to seek his insights.
“He’s been starting to do some stuff in cricket. He’s obviously an England legend and it’s just nice to have him around the group. He’s not been brought in with any specific role, just to be around and observe. A few of the lads can pick his brains a little bit and he’s settled in really well,” Buttler said.
