Flintoff targets Lions tour

Andrew Flintoff may come into contention for a place on the Lions squad later this month

Andrew Flintoff could make his comeback on the England Lions tour of India as he steps up his rehabilitation from ankle surgery.

The 30-year-old all-rounder, who went under the knife in October and has been recovering in America, will not be considered for England's trip to New Zealand but could feature as a batsman in the Lions team which will compete in the Duleep Trophy, India’s domestic competition.

"They are very happy with his rehab," said chairman of selectors David Graveney. "There is a possibility, if his rehab goes to plan, of him going on the Lions tour at the end of January.

"He's very keen to get back playing cricket so there is a possibility of him joining up as a batsman only as part of his rehab.

"Everyone has their fingers crossed to get him back bowling and at this stage it is going according to plan."

The Lions depart for India on January 24, with spinner Monty Panesar in the squad before he travels to New Zealand for the three-Test series with the full team.

Rather than provide back-up for the one-day team, Panesar will work with spin coach David Parsons.

"It will be high quality opposition for him to get some bowling done and be in prime condition for New Zealand," Graveney added.