The Ashes, baby!

[Sweder]

Thanks to EG for catching my deliberate mistake - originally posted 'Collimore' instead of 'Collingwood' - an aposite composite if ever there was one. More Colly indeed :o

'Sir' Freddie announced his imminent retirement from the long game this morning, this series being his last (fitness permitting). The arguments will rage over a) his inclusion in the recent IPL series when less than fully fit and b) his perceived desire to become the next Dumbslog Millionaire versus his apparently less valuable test career. (I think the latter point is redundant; Freddie's body can't take five days of full-on day-long pounding. One-day disciplines offer rest days compatible with failing body parts). Wider questions will bob to the surface re: the future of test cricket and which players may follow suit in pursuit of short-term gold over sporting immortality. Flintoff's place in cricket's pantheon is already assured thanks to 2005 and all that.

Aggers, reporting the news from Lords this morning, pointed out Flintoff's rather ordinary test stats - batting average barely over 30, a modest return of wickets costing a hair over 32 runs each. He also acknowledged the Fred Factor over and above mere numbers; the ability to rise to the toughest challenge, to smite furiously with bat and ball when his country needed him most, not to forget those redoubtable bucket hands at second slip.

I wonder if this announcement will galvanise Flintoff and his team mates to step up and 'win one for the Fredster?' England expects ... and hopes.