ICC World T20: Former captain Andrew Flintoff backs England to lift the cup
Seasoned seam bowling all-rounder Andrew Flintoff has come out with a bold prediction ahead of the World T20 in India. One India reported the flamboyant cricketer picking England to emerge victorious in the tournament.
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That the former skipper is sticking his neck out and tagging Eoin Morgan’s side as potential winners does not come across as a surprise. The 38-year old is renowned for his charismatic personality and outlandish statements.
Impressed by the progress made by a new-look England limited-overs outfit, Flintoff enthused, “I think England will win it, genuinely. I look at the team and the way in which they play.”
However, he remained wary of the aggressive brand of cricket formulated by the likes of India and Australia. ‘Freddie’ affirmed, “It's going to be tough in India. I think India are the favorites along with Australia but I think that will work in our advantage. I don't think anyone is expecting England to win and sometimes that's really nice.”
Citing the depth in the England squad, Flintoff believed that there was enough quality in the team to tackle different situations. He asserted, “It frees you up and you can just play and go about your business. If you look at the side every department is covered.”
The big-match player represented England in more than 200 international matches across all formats and picked up 400 wickets to go alongside his 7000 plus runs. Having retired from all cricket in August 2009, he even dabbled in boxing.
Flintoff attempted to launch a comeback by turning out for Brisbane Heat in the 2015 edition of the Big Bash League. His endorsement will come as a shot in the arm for England who are seeking their second World T20 title.
England’s only global success came in 2010 when Paul Collingwood’s team clinched the World T20 on Caribbean soil. But, their recent T20I form has been inconsistent with a 2-0 loss against South Africa opening up a few loopholes on the batting front.
They have been slotted alongside South Africa, Sri Lanka, West Indies and a qualifier in Group 1. England will begin their campaign against the West Indies on March 16 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.