Flintoff says the best is yet to come

By Richard Sydenham

LONDON (Reuters) - Andrew Flintoff, set to play his first test in 18 months on Friday when England face South Africa in the second test at Headingley, is relishing a new beginning and believes his best years are still ahead of him.

Flintoff, 30, last played a test in January 2007 when he was captain of England as they lost the Ashes 5-0.

After that he experienced more ankle pain and had to undergo a fourth operation last October before a side strain delayed his comeback this season.

The all-rounder, who has been England's most influential cricketer of the past decade, will add firepower to a bowling attack that failed to force a win at Lord's in the first test, which was drawn.

"For me it is almost a fresh start," Flintoff, expected to earn a 68th test appearance, told reporters on Wednesday.

"A few years ago I was out for a while and then came back with some success - hopefully I can do that again.

"I was pleased, ecstatic almost, just to get the call back in the England squad. If you have ever pulled on an England shirt it is enough to get you back out playing one-day internationals, or test cricket."

Flintoff has proved his fitness after two four-day matches for county side Lancashire and he is now likely to replace out-of-form Paul Collingwood in his regular number six position.