Andrew ‘Freddie’ Flintoff’s speech to Adil Rashid was so inspiring that fans have tipped the 2005 Ashes winner for a future England role.
Flintoff joined the England coaching set-up for the tour of the West Indies but could not prevent Joss Butler’s side falling to a four-wicket defeat in the opening game of their T20 series.
Prior to the match, Flintoff was asked to present bowler Adil Rashid with his 100th cap for England at T20 level before delivering a speech that left a huge impression on England fans.
He said: “This is a milestone which I’m thrilled to give, seeing as that Rash… you was the last player that I toured with.
“I remember you coming into the side as this young lad full of mystery, full of wonder, full of mischief and loads and loads of ability.
“Over the years, I think everyone in this group, myself, anybody who has played with you has been so proud of how you’ve gone about your business.
“Multiple World Cup winner, the best in the business at what you do around the world but more importantly Rash, you as a person
“You’re one of them cricketers, you look around this group, you look at how much you mean to all these guys. You’re such an integral part of this squad.
“And the other thing is you give back. Whether it’s in Bradford with your academies. You know, the other day – yesterday – I saw you spending all this time with a leg-spinner, a young kid coaching him. And to me that is just as important as everything else you do.
“To me, you epitomise everything that England cricket is about. It’s been a privilege for me to tour with you, it’s a privilege for me to give you this cap.
“But tonight boys, we’re in Barbados. It’s a full house. We’re living the dream! Let’s live the dream with Rash tonight. I’m so excited, and I’m sure everybody else is. So Rash, come and get this cap – 100 but you’ve not stopped yet. There’s plenty more in you. Well done son.”
The speech was rounded off by Flintoff sharing a warm embrace with the two-time World Cup-winning leg-spinner as the rest of the squad gave a round of applause.
Reacting to the footage posted on England’s official X account, fans were quick to praise the 46-year-old’s influence around the squad.
One fan wrote: “As always, quality from Freddie. So good to see him involved back in the game he loves so much
Another added: “He’s on course to become head coach surely?”
A third fan wrote: “Flintoff can’t half do a speech.”
A fourth added: “Well done rash and brilliant to see Freddie well and in amongst it all. What a heartwarming watch.”