ICC World T20: Andrew Flintoff backs England to win tournament in India

Andrew Flintoff has backed England to triumph at this year's ICC World T20 in India, despite claiming India and Australia head into the tournament as favourites.

The former all-rounder, who scored 3845 runs and took 226 wickets in 71 Tests for England, says Eoin Morgan's side should not be underestimated.

England are currently fourth favourites to lift the title in the sub-continent and Flintoff believes they can use their underdog status to their advantage.

"I think England will win it, genuinely. I look at the team and the way in which they play," Flintoff told Lancashire Cricket TV.

"It's going to be tough in India. I think India are the favourites along with Australia but I think that will work in our advantage. I don't think anyone is expecting England to win and sometimes that's really nice.

"It frees you up and you can just play and go about your business. If you look at the side every department is covered."

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England's chances of success hinge of the form of Lancashire batsman Jos Buttler and captain Eoin Morgan, according to Flintoff.

"I think there are two crucial players for England. The captain Eoin Morgan - I think he's a leader," he said. "He comes across really well, he speaks really well and he's obviously got the backing of the players.

"The other one is one of ours, Jos Buttler. If he has a good tournament England can win anything. I think they would be a great outside bet.

"I wouldn't be surprised. Stranger things have happened than England winning this tournament."

England face New Zealand at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Saturday in their penultimate warm-up game before facing a Mumbai XI at the Brabourne Stadium on Monday. 

Bayliss side then kick off their campaign against the West Indies on March 16 before facing South Africa, a qualifier and Sri Lanka in their remaining Group One fixtures.