We're not dead without Fred

I read in amazement that so many respected pundits and journalists suggested that England had no chance of regaining the Ashes without Andrew Flintoff.

Amazed largely because of how dramatically England's bowling attack has improved without Freddie, since he pulled up in Antigua during the winter.

In Jimmy Anderson, Stuart Broad and Graham Onions, England have three genuine match winning fast bowlers. Add Graeme Swann and Monty Panesar, England have two spinners who are both considering more threatening than Nathan Hauritz, Australia's only real spin option.

And Tim Bresnan cannot be written off either. He showed at Chester-le-Street what he can do.

Clearly a fit Flintoff is a fantastic weapon. But to say we have no chance without him is absurd indeed.