Andrew Flintoff backs England duo Stuart Broad and Jimmy Anderson
Former England all-rounder feels criticism of Broad and Anderson "beggars belief"; Flintoff, speaking at Sky Ocean Rescue event, says Jos Buttler "lucky to be playing Test cricket"
Tuesday 5 June 2018 18:23, UK
Former England bowler Andrew Flintoff has defended Stuart Broad and Jimmy Anderson over criticism of their recent performances.
The seamers both came under fire after England's poor results during the winter, which saw them lose the Ashes series against Australia 4-0, followed by a 1-0 Test defeat to New Zealand in March.
After the team lost the opening Test against Pakistan at Lord's, former captain Michael Vaughan was among those to question Broad and Anderson's continued inclusion, suggesting it might be time to drop one of the senior players in order to "ruffle some feathers".
However, both bowlers bounced back with impressive displays in the Headingley Test as England levelled the series.
Talking about the criticism, Flintoff said: "How can you? Jimmy Anderson has got a lot of wickets, Stuart Broad has got a lot as well, and their recent records are alright too.
"They take a bit of criticism and they come back strong. It beggars belief, it really does.
"There are areas in which the side can improve but from the bowling department, those two are the best we have had so we have got to stick with them for a while longer."
Jos Buttler produced a man-of-the-match display, hitting an unbeaten 80 as England won by an innings and 55 runs in Leeds, but Flintoff thinks that free-swinging Buttler is "lucky to be playing Test cricket".
"It was an important win and they played quite well, but I think they will be kicking themselves," said Flintoff.
"They should have won at Lord's as well. After the first Test match, everyone was talking up Pakistan and they were alright. I think we just under-performed.
"We are starting to put it together. We have got a good side with a few new inclusions and Jos Buttler coming in, who I think is a very lucky lad to be playing Test cricket.
"He has got to take his chance and he has grabbed it with both hands. I wouldn't say he has cemented his spot but he is going to be there for a while now.
"The signs are good for England, but let's not get carried away."
Flintoff was speaking in Cardiff, where the Sky Ocean Rescue campaign is showcasing its work in partnership with the Volvo Ocean Race.
Comment below to get involved in the debate, but please adhere to our House Rules. If you wish to report any comment, simply click on the down arrow next to the offending comment and click 'Report'.
