Brett Lee has hailed Andrew Flintoff as a "once-in-a-generation player" ahead of the England all-rounder's return to the Test arena.
Aussie rival believes all-rounder is a 'once-in-a-generation' player
Australia fast bowler Brett Lee has hailed Andrew Flintoff as a "once-in-a-generation player" ahead of the England all-rounder's return to the Test arena.
Flintoff has been named in the England squad for the second Test against South Africa in Headingley after proving his return to fitness with Lancashire.
Flintoff had been set for a return ahead of the New Zealand series after recovering from an ankle operation, however a side strain delayed his comeback until now.
And although Lee is likely to be going head-to-head with Flintoff in the Ashes in 2009, he believes the return of Freddie is good fro the game.
"Flintoff is a once-in-a-generation player," said the 31-year-old.
"I liken him to the great Ian Botham. They are guys who can change a game at the drop of a hat with bat and ball and also field.
Magnificent
"He was the standout in the '05 Ashes over there, he's also a very close friend of mine but a magnificent player on and off the field.
"He's a great guy and the type of guy who can change the game. I am looking forward to having him back definitely."
Lee has stepped into the role as Australia's main strike weapon following the retirements of Glenn McGrath and Shane Warne - and he can't wait for the Ashes to come around.
"We've got the Ashes coming up as well which we are not directly looking forward to right now because we have a few things in place that we have to take care of first," he said.
"I would be lying if I didn't say I was looking forward to the Ashes next year.
"I'd be lying if I say I haven't been doing a bit of homework on the series that is happening now because we have got South Africa and England coming up shortly.
"I have been doing a bit of homework and watching their players. They have got a lot of young guys coming through who have been very impressive so I am looking forward to playing against both of those sides."
