Tuesday 14 October 2014 14:45, UK
Andrew Flintoff looks poised to play for Brisbane Heat in this winter's Big Bash League after coach Stuart Law confirmed he expects to sign the former England all-rounder for the Twenty20 tournament.
Flintoff made a surprise return to competitive action during this season's Natwest T20 Blast after five years in retirement and after an injury curtailed his early involvement, his first-ball dismissal of Ian Bell and two huge sixes with the bat on Finals Day showed he can still compete at the top level.
"We've had discussions with Freddie," Law told the Manchester Evening News.
"If things go well, hopefully we will be able to confirm next week that he will play some part in the Big Bash for us.
"I am really excited by the idea. We get on really well and have had plenty of good times down the years during my time with Lancashire.
"He will be the biggest signing Brisbane Heat has made," added Law, who made it clear the Flintoff's move will not be a gimmick.
"I have spoken to Fred and made it clear that this is not a holiday, but he told me cricket is number one for him, and that it is not about collecting cash, it's about winning trophies.
"I am sure Fred will do the right thing for this team. He is a proud man. He is not after the cash, he wants to contribute to the team.
"We know we will not be getting Freddie at his best from 2005, but if he is anywhere close then he will be great for us.
"The Australian fans will love him. They won't get on his back. He will create a following here and will love it in Brisbane."
