Freddie's Career

Andrew Flintoff has now officially retired from the bounty of test match cricket with 2 Ashes victories under his legacy. He has been renowned as iconic figure of inspiration for younger cricketers. His all-round credentials have been astonishing as has his on field anticipation. However many would label him as an "underachieved" cricketer who should have achieved more but was bogged down with several injuries to halt his career. Additionally his off field behaviour was shameful with that Caribbean scenario in 2007 to name one. One can't fundamentally ignore his failings as captain with that humiliating 5-0 whitewash down under in the 2006-07 season. But all in all he is now retired and therefore we should look upon the positive aspects of his illustrious career or "larger then life " personality.

The immense power he had to loft shots over the rope with the simplest ease was a gifted but admirable art. He will be right up there with the "king of sixes". Technically he was correct, right out of the coaching manual some shall say.

His hands were as comforted like a circular bucket. This enabled him to become a valuable slip fielder. His bowling probably was the one that suffered the most from his ankle injuries but nevertheless he sustained a fine track record and produced some breath taking spells to change round the whole emphasis of a game. This came under as an admirable attribute. He had an invincible run of years in 2004 and 05 , this is when he really began to rise to the fame and was unarguably at the peak of his prime then.

So in conclusion Mr Freddie was an entertaining and talented cricketer but also had his down sides. We need more of these modern all-rounder's in the game as they provide the ultimate source of entertainment for spectators. Stuart Broad's records thus far with bat and ball has been rather impressive and he sooner then later could be ready to step in those heavy shoes. Is he capable of coping with the pressure and expectation of the fine all-rounder in order to become Fred's successor ? Only time shall tell......