Flintoff's Ankle Operation A Routine Success

Andrew Flintoff’s third ankle surgery in as many years was a success as confirmed by an ECB statement released following the procedure on Friday.

According to the ECB statement Flintoff ‘underwent an exploratory arthroscopy on his injured left ankle.

‘Early signs are that the operation was routine, and Andrew will begin his rehabilitation accordingly following successful removal of tissue contributing to anterior impingement in the ankle.

‘Andrew will require a programme of strengthening and proprioceptive work before he can start to return to training and bowling.  It is anticipated that he will aim to return to playing cricket before the end of the summer.’

Flintoff, 29, who has undergone surgery on the same ankle in 2005 and 2006, missed the first two tests in the current four-match series against West Indies after feeling pain in his foot while bowling.