Flintoff 'loving' England role

Flintoff: New role for England

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Andrew Flintoff says he is enjoying his cricket more than ever before and believes his role as an elder statesman in the England dressing room is an important one.

The 30-year-old returned to the international arena following a fourth ankle operation earlier this summer, winning the man-of-the-series award after England's 4-0 NatWest Series victory over South Africa.

The all-rounder admits there were times when he did not enjoy playing for England, but that the long, dark days of rehabiliation taught him to be greatful for the opportunity his natural talent gave him.

"I think I'm a better cricketer for those dark times and a better person," Flintoff said. "When you experience tough times, the better times are that much sweeter.

"I was sitting on the balcony at Lord's the other day after we'd won and one of the lads asked if I'd enjoyed it.

Complete reversal

"I'd been through a whole host of things just to be sitting there with a man-of-the-match award and playing for a side that's 4-0 up in a series against South Africa, so I just couldn't stop smiling.

"It's a complete reversal from six months ago and I suppose that all goes back to enjoyment and I'm absolutely loving it at the moment.

"One of the things I was determined to do when I came back into international cricket was that I wanted to enjoy it.

"I knew there was going to be pressure on me but cricket's not life or death, it's a game and it's to be enjoyed.

"Possibly for a period I lost that enjoyment. I'm in a privileged position because I'm playing cricket for England but I'm going to enjoy it while it lasts and it always helps when you're doing well, but I'm in a very good place at the moment."

Righthand man

Flintoff has adopted the role of skipper Kevin Pietersen's righthand man in the dressing room and it is a position that Flintoff is relishing.

"I think I've found my perfect role within the side," added Flintoff. "I've had a go at captaincy and I think now in my own way I can lead.

"Kevin is obviously the captain and he's in charge, but I can help by passing on some of the things I've learnt to the younger lads, especially the bowlers and I can be there for Kevin to give advice if he needs it.

"It also allows me to get on with my game as well. Kev has spoken to me and a few of the senior players about getting involved and helping and I'm keen to do that, and this role I've been given now is one I feel very comfortable with."