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We can manage without Flintoff: Flower

London: Andy Flower says England can rely on its fast bowling department to do the job in the remaining Ashes Tests if star performer Andrew Flintoff goes on to miss the series due to injury.

Flower, the England team director, said Flintoff’s absence would be a blow to the team but believes the host need not worry as it has enough options.

“He’s a world-class performer and if he is out of the side of course that is a blow. But we have a few fast bowlers in the wings who we know can be very successful in international cricket.

“Of course we want Flintoff in the side but we’ll see if his body is up to it. If not there are other guys who can do the job for us,” Flower said.

“Fred obviously had a tough physical game but he was very bullish about being ready for the third Test. Obviously with his injury record we’ve got to be a little bit careful with the wear and tear on his body. We’ve employed the best men around to give us that advice,” Flower told the Times.

Flower asserted he was comfortable in telling Flintoff about his exclusion from the team if he fails to make the team on injury grounds.

“We’re going to have to play good cricket. Remember, we re playing the No. 1 side in the world. I’m sure they will regroup and come back at us,” he said. — PTI

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