Andrew Flintoff joins England backroom staff for New Zealand ODIs

Andrew Flintoff was spotted doing fielding drills with the England side ahead of their first One-Day International (ODI) against New Zealand in Cardiff. The former England all-rounder was spotted in the England dressing room during the game - his first public appearance since he met with a serious accident on the sets of Top Gear in December 2022.

Flintoff is not working in any formal capacity with the team and is unlikely to stay beyond the four-match ODI between England and New Zealand, and is unlikely to travel with the England side for the World Cup in India, starting October 5.

"He's obviously an England legend, and it's just nice to have him around the group," England captain Jos Buttler said. 

"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. It's great to have him with us. Just for this series."

Flintoff's accident saw him break his ribs and suffer various injuries on his face and jaw, and had to be airlifted to the hospital as a result. The scars on his face could still be seen during the Cardiff ODI. He last played for England in 2009. Considered one of the finest all-rounders of his generation, Flintoff ended his career with 227 international appearances, managing over 7,000 runs and picking up exactly 400 wickets.