Flintoff piles up Oval overs

0 Comments | AFP, April, 2008

LONDON (AFP) — Andrew Flintoff's bid to be fit in time for next month's first Test against New Zealand at Lord's received a boost Thursday as the England all-rounder got through 28 overs for Lancashire in the first innings of their County Championship opener against Surrey at The Oval.

During the close season Flintoff underwent a fourth operation on a troublesome left ankle that has not always been able to stand the strain of his all-action approach to fast bowling.

It is still to be seen how the joint reacts after such a lengthy stint but the fact Flintoff took one for 72 in 28 overs, as the hosts piled up 537 for five declared while operating at a lively pace, impressed Mark Butcher, the Surrey captain.

"He seemed to be coming through quite nicely," said...