Flintoff to provide Bristol cream

Before the start of the seven-match one-day series against England, Rahul Dravid, the India captain, identified Andrew Flintoff as the main threat to his side's chances. Dravid was hardly flinging himself from the fence with such a statement but he could soon be cowering behind it if Flintoff's early form carries on. The Lancashire all-rounder was immense with the ball against India in England's stunning 104-run victory at the Rose Bowl on Tuesday. Despite taking only one wicket, Flintoff's economy rate was fewer than two runs an over as he bowled with venom in his first international game back following an ankle problem. In his very first over he sent down four or five deliveries at more than 90mph. He hasn't bowled that quickly since 2005. If he can repeat this rhythm at Bristol for game two on Friday, then Bet365 could regret making him 5-6 to score 51 or more performance points. With one point awarded per run, ten per catch and 20 per wicket, Flintoff could comfortably eclipse that quote. His wicket-taking ability is there for all to see while he should get a hit-out with the bat this time. Indeed in his 124-game one-day career, Flintoff's average per game make-up is 50.4. India should feel more confident of success in Bristol. The wicket is slow and low and should suit their batsmen and spin bowlers. It is a very sub-continental style of track, which is why Pakistan skipper Shoaib Malik had success in a stint with home team Gloucestershire. A wristy ability to work the ball into gaps could be crucial, so look out for Sourav Ganguly or Yuvraj Singh for top-bat honours for the visitors. Paul Collingwood, who rates as England's best player on this type of surface, has nice low hands and could pinch enough ones or two to outscore his team-mates. Check out SportingBet for the best prices on the 2nd one-day international between England and India.