ANDY Flintoff today vowed to make the most of his third international chance.

And he was backed as a key figure in England's future by chairman of electors David Graveney.

"Freddie" has been cast aside by England since the World Cup, following a previous snub last winter after his first two Test appearances against South Africa.

But he was included in both the Test and one-day squads for the South Africa trip announced at Lord's yesterday, with Graveney saying: "He was pretty close to selection for the last Test against New Zealand at the Oval and he is going to be an outstanding cricketer."

Graveney also revealed that the improvement in Flintoff's bowling had boosted his claims. "People I have talked to say his bowling is as quick as anything they have faced all season," added the chairman.

Flintoff was delighted to be back in the England fold.

"There had been a lot of speculation about bringing young players in, but I didn't feel totally confident that I would be picked because my form has been a bit up and down this season," said the 21-year-old.

"My average of over 45 but that's mainly because of the two big scores against Gloucestershire and Yorkshire. But obviously I'm delighted to make it. It's a chance to establish myself in the team."

Flintoff impressed on the A-tour of Zimbabwe and South Africa last winter and a good start to the tour would see him pressing for the problem all-rounder's position. His selection could also be good news for Lancashire as it boosts his chances of being offered a central contract by the England and Wales Cricket Board if they can agree a compensation figure with the counties before next summer.

It is looking increasingly likely that Flintoff will be staying with Lancashire, although he is still waiting for a formal contract offer from the club.

Lancashire are already planning ahead for his likely absence on international duty in future years, and today's committee meeting was expected to go ahead with a contract offer to Colne's Australian professional Joe Scuderi even though doubts remain about whether Lord's would agree to exempt him from the overseas quota.

Meanwhile, Flintoff will take his place in the team to face Durham in another important PPP Championship match starting at Old Trafford tomorrow. Although Lancashire have climbed to fifth and Durham seventh with their superb recent form, both counties need at least one more win to clinch their place in the top nine, and next year's First Division.

And Nick Speak, who is tipped to take over as Durham captain when David Boon heads home to Tasmania at the end of the season, will be anxious to make an impression on his return to Old Trafford.

Lancashire are expected to recall Chris Schofield to the squad after he missed out in the rain-ruined game at Worcester last week.

Warwickshire did Lancashire a favour yesterday by beating Worcestershire in the CGU National League, leaving Lightning two points clear at the top of the First Division with Worcester no longer having a game in hand.

But the title is still likely to be decided by the last game of the season between Worcestershire and Lancashire at New Road.

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