"Wear it proudly" – Dale Steyn reacts to Andrew Flintoff’s moving speech for Josh Hull on England debut ahead of ENG vs SL 3rd Test
Former South Africa speedster Dale Steyn lauded England’s batting coach Andrew Flintoff for his welcome speech for Jish Hull while handing him the debut cap ahead of the third Test against Sri Lanka at Kennington Oval on Day 1 (Friday, September 6). Steyn labeled Flintoff a ‘superhero’ while asking Hull to wear the cap proudly. The reaction came to a video shared by England Cricket’s official handle on X.
Former World No.1 pacer Steyn replied to the micro-blogging post:
“When one superhero hands over his cloak and powers to the new superhero, here’s the rules Josh, wear it proudly. Freddie gets it, that was brilliant.”
Flintoff gave a riveting speech that put a tear on Hull’s mother. He said (via Independent):
“I’ve got the incredible opportunity to present a Test cap today. It’s something that I do not take lightly. It is so nice that the family is here to show that as well because of being a parent myself and just how much you go through for your children."
"Driving them everywhere and taking them to places, but also the nerves of watching your kids play. Hopefully, you’re going to have a great week this week as you watch your son play for England," he added.
Flintoff continued"
"This cap represents so many things. Firstly, Test cricket. Josh, you are going to play a game now which is a game like no other. It tests your ability, character and personality."
"From what we have seen so far, you have those things in abundance. This is the perfect time to enter a team, everyone here in this group is willing you to succeed and when challenges occur, will stand right next to you and get you through. Every time you wear this cap, you’ll be filled with pride, and you’ll feel unstoppable. As an old fella, you’ll look back at this and say this is the best part of your life. Enjoy it and showcase everything that you’re about,” he concluded.
Watch the video below:
Flintoff is filling in as England’s batting coach in the absence of Marcus Trescothik, who is on a break after the second Test against Sri Lanka. Flintoff worked as the head coach of Northern Superchargers in the latest edition of The Hundred. He also worked with England at the 2024 T0 World Cup.
Flintoff represented England in 79 Tests, 141 ODIs, and seven T20Is, scoring 7315 runs across formats, comprising eight centuries and 44 fifties. He has also bagged 400 wickets in international cricket.
Who is England's new pacer Josh Hull?
Josh Hull is a 20-year-old player, who plays for Leicestershire and Manchester Originals in the county and The Hundred.
The lanky pacer has bagged 16 and 17 wickets in first-class and List-A games, respectively. He has also scalped 24 wickets in 21 T20s.
Follow the ENG vs SL 3rd Test live score and updates here.