Andrew Flintoff makes first appearance as England’s backroom staff after surviving horrific accident

Former English cricketer Andrew Flintoff made his very first public appearance after a long break due to the severe injuries he sustained while filming for the BBC show Top Gear. It is worth noting that Flintoff was involved in an accident that left him with broken ribs and many injuries on his face. 

However, it seems like Flintoff is on the road to recovery, as he joined England’s backroom staff for their four-match ODI series against New Zealand. Notably, Flintoff is in the staff unpaid, and it has been facilitated due to his camaraderie with the managing director of England men's cricket, Rob Key. 

Furthermore, Flintoff was spotted engaging in conversation with England’s coaching staff on the stadium’s balcony. However, his involvement with the team is expected to end soon, as he will not be travelling with the team to India for the upcoming ODI World Cup 2023.

With his return, England’s white-ball skipper Jos Buttler came forward to reflect on how good it is to have a former all-rounder with the squad who knows the ins and outs of English cricket.

"He's been starting to do some stuff in cricket, it's just great for him to be around. He's obviously an England legend and it's just nice to have him around the group, he's not been brought in with any specific role, just to be around and observe. A few of the lads can pick his brains a little bit and he's settled in really well," Jos Buttler was quoted as saying by India Today. 

New Zealand gain early lead in ODI series

Speaking of the ongoing ODI series between England and New Zealand, the first ODI saw England come in to bat first, and through brilliant performances by Jos Buttler, Dawid Malan, and Liam Livingstone, England posted 291 runs on the board in the first innings.

Aiming to chase down the target, New Zealand did just what they had to do. Daryl Mitchell and Devon Conway completed brilliant centuries and propelled their side to an eight-wicket win in the first ODI.