Strauss appointed captain

Andrew Strauss has been named as England captain for the first Test against Pakistan at Lord’s starting next week.

The England selectors did however confirm that it is only temporary and that Andrew Flintoff will take over the captaincy role when he returns to the line-up.

With Michael Vaughan all but certain to miss the Ashes at the end of the year, this means it is now extremely likely that Flintoff will be the man to lead England’s fight to retain the Ashes in Australia.

Flintoff is to have his ankle re-assessed within the next few days and is expected to return for the second Test against Pakistan at Old Trafford on 27th July.

The squad for the first Test at Lord’s is to be announced this coming Sunday.