Flintoff rules out grade cricket

Andrew Flintoff’s management have ruled out the player playing grade cricket in Australia prior to the start of the Ashes in November.

Flintoff who recently underwent ankle surgery was expected by many to play for one of Australia’s state sides as preparation for the Ashes and to get some match fitness back after his 12-week recovery period.

Flintoff’s management said the story had been “completely blown out” and there were no plans for him to play in Australia prior to the beginning of the Ashes.

The Ashes tour starts with a one-day game against a Prime Ministers XI in Canberra on 10th November, with the first of five Ashes tests starting on 23rd November at The Gabba in Brisbane.