Flintoff injury scare for England
Andrew Flintoff is in doubt for the second Test against Pakistan after feeling discomfort in his ankle during his comeback match for Lancashire, against Kent, at Canterbury
Cricinfo staff
21-Jul-2006
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A decision on his availability for the second Test at Old Trafford will be made after he visits a specialist tomorrow.
An ECB statement said: "Andrew Flintoff has made good progress with his rehabilitation from an injury to his left ankle. He has worked extremely hard and at every stage of the rehabilitation program has shown improvement.
"However, bowling in a four-day County Championship match against Kent was intended as the final test of the progress that he has made. Unfortunately, he has experienced some discomfort today and he will see a specialist tomorrow to reassess the ankle and future management of the injury."
Flintoff has steadily increased his workload over the last couple weeks, starting with two Twenty20 matches for Lancashire before his Championship return. He bowled 19 overs in the first innings against Kent, taking two wickets in his first spell. However, despite opening the bowling in the second innings he sent down just four overs before feeling pain in his ankle.
England drew the first Test against Pakistan, at Lord's, and the four-man bowling attack was lightweight without Flintoff's presence. Andrew Strauss led the side and would again stand in if Flintoff is ruled out of any further Tests.