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Flintoff century helps England to win in warm up match

09/11/2008

Andrew Flintoff struck 101 of 85 balls to help England win the opening match of their tour of India with a 122-run victory over the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA).

England set a challenging total of 297-4 which the hosts could not match and were restricted to 175-8 from their 50 overs.

The ton was Flintoff's first for his country since the Trent Bridge Test of the 2005 Ashes series with Australia.

Since that time the all-rounder has been beset by injuries but looks to have rediscovered his best form after a summer playing county cricket.

England's opening partnership made 22 before Matt Prior was bowled for 13, partner Ian Bell helped push the score onto 100 before he was stumped off the bowling of off-spinner Vikrant Yeligeti for 58.

The dismissal of captain Kevin Pietersen for just six runs was perhaps the only disappointment for England on the day.

However, his wicket brought Flintoff to the crease and he dominated the MCA attack. Flintoff and Owais Shah put on 132 runs to get England on to an imposing total.

Flintoff was let off on seven and 25 when he was dropped but he took full advantage of his chances, scoring 12 fours and three sixes, the last of which was on the final ball of the innings to help him get his century.

England were in good form n the field. Opening bowler James Anderson claimed three wickets, while spinner Samit Patel got two wickets.

Kevin Pietersen utilised his 12-man team to the fullest, using eight bowlers and thus ensuring they all remain fresh for the one-day series with India which begins on Friday.