Andrew "Freddie" Flintoff MBE (born 6 December 1977) is a broadcaster, TV panelist and former England international cricketer, who played all forms of the game. Playing primarily for Lancashire, Flintoff was one of the sports leading all rounders, serving as a fast bowler, middle order batsman and talented slip fielder. Flintoff was consistently rated by the ICC as being among the top international all-rounders in both ODI and Test cricket. Flintoff later in his career played for Chennai Super Kings in the IPL, and Brisbane Heat in the Big Bash League.
Following his debut in 1998, he became an integral player for England, and was England's "Man of the Series" during the successful 2005 Ashes series. He later served as both captain and vice-captain of the team. However, he suffered regular injuries throughout his international career, often due to his heavy frame and bowling action. During the period 2007–09 he played in only 13 of England's 36 Test matches, but nevertheless remained a core member of the England squad, being selected whenever available. On 15 July 2009, he announced his retirement from Test cricket at the conclusion of the 2009 Ashes series, on 24 August, and although he made himself available for future commitments in One Day International and Twenty20 International matches, it was reported on 7 September 2009 that he had developed deep vein thrombosis after surgery to his knee.
Following his debut in 1998, he became an integral player for England, and was England's "Man of the Series" during the successful 2005 Ashes series. He later served as both captain and vice-captain of the team. However, he suffered regular injuries throughout his international career, often due to his heavy frame and bowling action. During the period 2007–09 he played in only 13 of England's 36 Test matches, but nevertheless remained a core member of the England squad, being selected whenever available. On 15 July 2009, he announced his retirement from Test cricket at the conclusion of the 2009 Ashes series, on 24 August, and although he made himself available for future commitments in One Day International and Twenty20 International matches, it was reported on 7 September 2009 that he had developed deep vein thrombosis after surgery to his knee.
