Give it to me big boy
Sure it would be easy to discount the wickets of Phil Hughes and Simon Katich from Freddie’s performance, however Flintoff’s brilliance transcends Rudi’s howlers. I’d like to think it was Fred’s aura that blurred Rudi’s view of the front foot line, and his presence that persuaded Rudi to forsake consistancy and just adjudicate the Strauss “catch” out. Well, either his precense or his presents, either way Hansie would be proud of his countrymen.
In remembering this outstanding bowling performance it should not be forgetten that he legitimately dismissed a wicket keeper and two bowlers, a phenomonal effort for a bowler passed fit by England’s medical staff just 4 mornings earlier.
Then there was the spirit in which he bowled his fiery 10 over spell, surely this is the stuff of which legends are made. That he celebrated his wickets like an ‘outraged camp duck’ shouldn’t take the gloss away from this memorable performance.
Freddie deserves to be eulogised and immortalised, though probably not as much as the 62 English bowlers who have superior innings figures at Lords (even after including Rudi’s freebies).
Here’s some thumbnails of Freddie accepting the well deserved praise that came with his 6 wickets…
