End of a Freddie Era
September 16th 2010 16:41
Link: twitter.com/mattsaltmer
Today marks the end of a true English sporting legends career. Having not played since the final Ashes test back in 2009, Andrew Flintoff has today announced his retirement from all forms of cricket. Today the sport loses one of its colossus's, a man who truly inspired a generation of cricketers, and attracted a whole host of new fans to the game.
He said he was ending his glittering career 'with disappointment and sadness', as he failed in his bid to recover from a third operation on knee and ankle injuries. Having played through last summer's successful Ashes series for England carrying injury, he announced his retirement from the longer form of the game before the series ended. During his rehabilitation however, he has repeatedly vowed to become 'the worlds greatest one day player'. He remained in England's plans as they offered a new central contract, and he also re-signed with his county, Lancashire, and Indian Premier League side Chennai Super Kings. However, after medical advise, his career is now over completely.
He was an inspirational and larger than life force, guiding England to regaining the Ashes from Australia in 2005 and 2009 on home soil. An un-successful stint as captain ended by being thumped 5-0 in the 2006 tour down-under, but this was a rare blip in a fantastic test career. A true all-rounder, he was the best bowler, best fielder, and most dynamic batsman in England's side for many years.
His test stats stand at 79 played, 3845 runs scored at an average of 32, and 226 wickets taken at an average of 33. He will be sorely missed by his country and one day teams, but mainly by the fans. It is rare in cricket, that a player has such appeal to the public. But Flintoff's personality, and aggressive and fiery style of play made him impossible to ignore, and personally, was a huge influence in my falling in love with test cricket.
He stated today 'I will now be taking a break, before deciding which future direction to take'. I wish big Freddie luck with all future endeavours, and thank him for his fantastic contribution to English cricket, and for bringing the Ashes home.
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