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Cricket

Flintoff set to play in Lancashire's season opener

14/04/2008

Andrew Flintoff is set to continue his comeback from ankle surgery after being named in the Lancashire squad for their first match of the season.

The red rose county take on Surrey when the County Championship season starts on Wednesday and the all-rounder was among the 12 names in coach Mike Watkinson's squad.

Flintoff has slowly been getting game time following the fourth operation on his troublesome ankle in October last year.

The 30-year-old played some part in the England Lions tour of India at the start of this year but he was ruled out this weekend's MCC clash against Sussex as selectors chose not to rush him back too quickly.

Flintoff has said previously that he is targeting the first Test between England and New Zealand at Lord's on May 15th for his international comeback.

However England coach Peter Moores will want to see Flintoff prove his fitness over a number of games for his county before putting him back in the starting line-up.

Lancashire will be pleased to have Flintoff for as long as possible as they mount another challenge for the County Championship title – having fallen short on the final day last season.

Watkinson said: "He [Flintoff] is looking fit and strong and we are really keen on him playing a full part in our opening fixture of the season," said Lancashire manager Mike Watkinson.

"It has been a great pleasure to have him around for an entire pre-season and that is something he has enjoyed."