Flintoff's absence creates opportunities for youngsters, says Pietersen by CricketArchive Staff Reporter

---

Player:

A Flintoff, KP Pietersen

---

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.