After twisting his knee during the first innings, Andrew Flintoff is all set to miss the second test of the 2009 Ashes, which will begin on Thursday. Having salvaged a draw at Cardiff, England would definitely be looking for a better performance in the next matches and it will be a huge blow if Flintoff is ruled out. He was definitely the pick of the English bowlers who looked to threaten the Australian batsmen.
The inclusion of in-form Harmmison will be a boost for England, however they cannot overlook the all-round abilities of Flintoff, who was instrumental in the Ashes triumph in 2005. The England lacked zip and never looked ominous apart from Flintoff. Their decision to play 2 spinners backfired after both Panesar and Swann were whacked by the Australian batsmen. Anderson was economical and got couple of wickets, however Stuart broad had an under whelming performance with just a wicket to talk about.
Strauss won’t have many things to ponder, apart from the dismal form of Alastair Cook, who failed in both innings. England might give him another chance since they wouldn’t want to change their combination amidst an important series.
