Freddie Flintoff helps out Jofra Archer as England fine tune preparations

12 September 2023 , 12:44

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Jofra Archer was back bowling in an England shirt at the Oval (Image: PA)

Jofra Archer was back bowling in an England shirt at the Oval as he ramps up his return to action ahead of the World Cup in India.

Archer sent down a succession of thunderbolts into the baseball mitt of Freddie Flintoff, who was clearly enjoying the high speeds; similar to the sort of deliveries he used to send down in his pomp.

But the biggest smile belonged to Archer who was back among his teammates and provided memories of the run up to the World Cup four years ago when he burst on to the scene at the perfect time.

Unfortunately for Archer and England, he is still not quite fit enough to play in a match just yet and will only go to the tournament as a travelling reserve. But it is hoped by continuing his rehab with the England squad and medics in the warmth of the sub continent, he might be able to feature at the back end of the tournament if a fast bowling replacement was required.

“He looks in a good place,” said all rounder David Willey. “I don’t know where he’s at fitness wise but he’s bowling good wheels out there today. Everyone knows how good he is, what he’s capable of and how he can impact games, so to have him close or not far away from being fit is obviously fantastic news.”

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Four years ago Willey was the man to make way for Archer once the Barbados-born quick had qualified to play for England. And the experience remains a bitter-sweet one for Willey who was torn between his joy at seeing England and his friends win a World Cup, and his desperate disappointment at not being a part of the squad to enjoy it.

Andrew Flintoff pictured during the nets session on Tuesday (PA)

This time around Willey appears all but guaranteed to be a part of this 50-over World Cup, not that he is taking anything for granted.

“You want to play for your country in World Cups and hopefully this time I can,” said the 33-year-old. “I think I’m a better cricketer now than I was this time four years ago. I’m pretty happy with where my game is at.

“I’d been a big part of that group from 2015 through to that World Cup so there were mixed emotions the day they won it. I was sat there watching with my family. I was very fortunate to have my wife and children there, they give you a bit of perspective.

“Obviously, I was delighted for the lads but it hurt. I’d have given my left arm to be a part of that. Nothing that happens to me in cricket now will ever be as bad as that. I’m happy to be here now, but until you’re on that flight out there you can’t rest on your laurels.”

Dean Wilson