Fred is Read-y

After seeing South Africa play out, in the end, a dire draw against England at Lords, it is obvious that Freddy Flintoff cannot remerge quick enough.

The nation’s favourite will have no immediate impact but his role and input will be significant if England are going to over turn South Africa in the remainder of this series.

The man whose place he should take should be Paul Collingwood as his recent performances with the bat have been pathetic.

I believe the captaincy for the one-dayers should be taken away from him as well as it is evitable that Kevin Pietersen will acquire that role, so why not give it to him now. The recent lack of sportsmanship and behaviour against New Zealand raise fresh doubts about his conduct and ability to enhance his ideas to the team. Especially with the Stanford 20 million-dollar game coming, Collingwood should not be guaranteed the position of captain.

With Flintoff back in the team, it would be good to get back to five bowlers, five batters and a wicket keeper like the 2005 Ashes victory. At the moment not one of those bowlers are in the starting eleven but with Flintoff claiming his spot back it may give Steve Harmison a huge lift and get back bowling to the incredible heights of his 7 for 12 runs against the West Indies. Matthew Hoggard may even give Stuart Broad a run for his money, even though Broad is a much better batter.

The unsung hero Simon Jones is consistently strengthening his claims for a recall as his fight back from numerous of injuries is looking very good. He may be that replacement for James Anderson as he often blows hot and cold. He was great against New Zealand on the last test but often felt missing in other tests. A fringe player at best.

I am really looking forward to Flintoff’s return if the selectors are daring enough. While his significance with the ball is vital, I believe he should be put at number 7 in the batting order as his influence and presence may distract Ian Bell in what is some brilliant form now. His 199 was a formidable innings and he will have to repeat that regularly to keep his place in the top five. Bell being moved down the order was considerably a decent move as he can grind out runs with the tailsmen.

With Tim Ambrose being pushed up to six it will give Bell a better platform to perform on as Flintoff’s smash approach would provide useful runs at the end of the innings as well has more rest time on his dedicate frame.

However, anyways, bring it home Freddy.