Flintoff called back by
injury-hit England

All-rounder Andrew Flintoff has been called back to Pakistan to provide back-up to England's injury-hit squad.

Flintoff, sent home after completing his role in the recent three-match limited overs series, may be needed as a specialist batsman, though a continuing back problem is preventing him from bowling.

England have been hit by injury problems ahead of the first Test against Pakistan, starting in Lahore on Wednesday, with captain Nasser Hussain, Michael Vaughan, Craig White and Dominic Cork on the casualty list.

Pakistan all-rounder Wasim Akram, who used to captain Flintoff at Lancashire, said on Monday he could not understand why his ex-county team mate had been sent back home in the first place.

Akram told England's Radio Five Live from Pakistan: "He must have been enjoying himself (at home) but he should have been here practising and getting used to the conditions.

"He was the best batsman who looked good against spin in the three one-day matches. I think he should play as a batsman in the one-day side or the test side, he is such a good player.

"It dosen't matter if he bowls or doesn't bowl. He is such a good future prospect for England he should play every game. He will gain experience and will win them games. It's important for England to have a player of his calibre."

England lost the one-day series 2-1 but Flintoff hammered a thunderous 84 off 60 balls to spur the touring side to victory in the opening match.

Mail Cricket Editor