Flintoff shines in easy win

Man of the match Andrew Flintoff took three wickets and scored an unbeaten 47 in England's straight-forward victory over Zimbabwe in the Natwest Series fixture at Bristol. After bowling Zimbabwe out for 92 in less than half the allocated overs, England lost four early wickets, before Flintoff, assisted by Vaughan took them to the target with more than 30 overs to spare.

Only Stuart Matsikenyeri and Andy Blignaut showed any resistance to the England bowling attack, as Darren Gough took four wickets in an impressive opening spell, further enhancing his chances of a Test recall. Flintoff continued to prove his maturity and his value in the one-day side with three wickets including those of Matsikenyeri and Blignaut. Zimbabwe failed to show the batting talent that has been evident on occasions, and the experienced players that they are so reliant on failed to perform.

Zimbabwe captain Heath Streak was even more impressive than Gough, and also took four wickets. England looked to finish the job too quickly, losing Trescothick early and then pinch-hitter Richard Johnson within an over. Solanki and McGrath also fell, bringing Flintoff to the crease. Whilst Vaughan continued to leave outside the off-stump, Flintoff looked like the only batsman able to manouver the ball off the square, with a number of brilliant straight drives, and a couple of sixes, one of which was dropped over the boundary by Charles Coventry, the other was mishit straight behind to win the match. Later Flintoff explained that Vaughan had given him the freedom to play his natural game, a decision which paid off, as Flintoff salvaged the innings, taking it from potentially embarassing to impressive.

Streak criticised the pitch but also commended the English bowling, contrasting Vaughan who insisted that it was not outstanding. England will be pleased to have qualified for the final, however if they are to lift the trophy, they will need to play with much more conviction against South Africa, who currently look in fine form.

Posted by Kelvin