Mark Wooden reveals he is been blown away by ‘incredible’ coach Andrew Flintoff’s ‘aura’ – as England legend bids to assist T20 World Cup title defence

Andrew Flintoff’s ‘pure aura’ has proved a giant hit with England’s T20 World Cup squad within the Caribbean, based on quick bowler Mark Wooden.

Flintoff has been working with the white-ball set-up since final summer season, having re-emerged into public life after the devastating accident that left him with facial disfigurement whereas filming for the BBC’s High Gear present in December 2022.

The previous England captain has stored a low profile since his return, partly as a result of he desires to ease his means again right into a sport he formally give up 9 years in the past, and partly due to a dislike of the media stemming from his enjoying days.

Now, he’s busy sharing the knowledge amassed throughout a world profession that included a starring position within the 2005 Ashes and introduced him 3,845 Take a look at runs and 226 wickets, in addition to 141 ODI appearances.

‘I believe he’s incredible,’ stated Wooden. ‘He’s obtained an actual aura, the way in which he speaks. He comes as much as folks individually, pulls them apart and retains issues quite simple: he advised me he had three balls – a bouncer, a quick yorker and a tough size. He’s nice to have across the group, and straightforward to speak to.’

Flintoff has been working with the England white-ball set-up since final summer season

With head coach Matthew Mott below strain after the debacle of the 50-over World Cup in India final 12 months, one other letdown right here may but result in a reshuffle of the teaching workers. Ought to Flintoff want to work his means up the teaching ladder, he seems to be doing his prospects no hurt.

The instant job for England’s backroom workers is to assist the gamers into the proper mind-set for Saturday’s recreation in opposition to Australia at Bridgetown, a fixture that has grown in significance following the abandonment in opposition to Scotland on Tuesday.

And Wooden admitted {that a} defeat would conjure up the narrative that took maintain in India, the place England misplaced six of their first seven group video games throughout a woeful defence of their one-day title.

It might additionally depart Jos Buttler’s workforce depending on profitable their final two video games, in opposition to Oman and Namibia in Antigua, and doubtlessly hoping that their internet run-rate stays higher than Scotland’s. Victory over Australia would produce a collective sigh of reduction.

Wooden says that the England legend is a superb character for the gamers to have within the group

‘It’s essential now, particularly with climate round and the run-rates being tight within the different recreation,’ stated Wooden. ‘If we will get forward there, it will likely be simpler when it will get all the way down to the wire. You by no means have to stand up for an Australia recreation, nevertheless it’s extra significance due to the factors.

‘Lose, and I’m certain there shall be questions requested by you guys within the media, just like the final World Cup in India, so it’ll be an vital recreation for us and one we’ll be desperately attempting to win.’

Wooden got here closest to creating a breakthrough in opposition to the Scots, solely to be denied the wicket of George Munsey as a result of he had overstepped. However his two overs price simply 11, and he averaged 91.2mph. Within the religious residence of quick bowling – his maiden Take a look at five-for got here in St Lucia – he has already made an impression on the locals.

Wooden says Flintoff comes as much as gamers individually and retains issues quite simple 

‘It’s fairly cool, particularly while you hear Mark Wooden approaching on the Malcom Marshall Finish over the tannoy,’ he stated. ‘That was particular.

‘I used to be in a taxi the opposite day and the man was saying: “I do know you.” I stated: “Yeah, Mark Wooden.” And he stated: “Yeah, you’re nippy man, you’re nippy.’ It’s good to be right here and have that form of recognition, and I get pleasure from being within the Caribbean with these reminiscences of St Lucia.’