LONDON, 22 June 2004 — Andrew Flintoff was rated no more than 50-50 yesterday for England’s triangular series opener against New Zealand on Thursday.
The Lancashire all-rounder is doubtful for the day night match against the Black Caps on his Old Trafford home ground after suffering pain in his left foot during England’s third Test victory at Trent Bridge. Flintoff had a scan on the injury last week and will be given further physiotherapy.
Meanwhile, Marcus Trescothick added to England’s injury problems by twisting his left ankle during fielding practice in the indoor school at Cardiff’s Sophia Gardens yesterday.
The Somerset left-handed opening batsman was given immediate ice treatment and is due to have his ankle X-rayed later.
England are set to examine Flintoff and Trescothick again when the squad gathers at Old Trafford today for training.
England coach Duncan Fletcher said: “Tresco is meant to have done this before and said he thought it would be all right — but you never really know what’s exactly happened until 24 hours later.
“I like to look on the positive about these things because it could give another guy an opportunity, but it is a big blow for us because they are two major players for us,” the former Zimbabwe captain added.
