Flintoff's absence creates opportunities for youngsters, says Pietersen
by CricketArchive Staff Reporter
DateLine: 24th July 2006
England batsman Kevin Pietersen said the positive side of Andrew
Flintoff’s absence means other players have a chance to prove their
mettle.
Ashes hero Flintoff was on Sunday sidelined for the next three months,
ruling him out of the on going Test series against Pakistan with a
troublesome left ankle.
"This creates an opportunity for the youngsters and opens door for
someone else to come in, do well and play for England. It will be a
pretty big series to win without Freddie but we will be giving
everything we can to beat Pakistan," said Pietersen.
Pietersen conceded that missing Flintoff would be “a big blow, but
injuries are injuries and it's just a case of wishing him well. We hope
he will get himself right, to get back on that field for the Ashes.
He's a big influence on the dressing room. He messes around and jokes
about and he will be someone that is missed,” he added.
