Flintoff winning fitness race

England received a welcome boost with the news that talismanic all-rounder Andrew Flintoff is expected to be fit to face Australia in the deciding Ashes test next week.

Flintoff, 31, was forced to miss England's emphatic fourth test innings and 80-run defeat last week, which left the series tied at 1-1, because of an injury.

"The swelling in his knee has significantly eased following the decision by the England management team to rest him from the last test match," the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said.

"Subject to further rest and intensive treatment, he will be available for selection for the fifth Ashes Test."

Flintoff, who took seven wickets and scored 171 runs in the opening three matches, will retire from test cricket following the Oval contest which starts on August 20.