Flintoff ruled out of tests

England all-rounder Andrew Flintoff has been ruled out of England's forthcoming three-Test series against Pakistan after failing to prove he was fit enough to bowl.

England all-rounder Andrew Flintoff has been ruled out of England's forthcoming three-Test series against Pakistan after failing to prove he was fit enough to bowl.

The Lancashire player has had long-term injury problems and was only picked on the condition that he could demonstrate he could bowl 10-15 overs a day.

But with Flintoff unable to bowl in the nets again today, the decision was made to call up another all-rounder in the form of Surrey's Alex Tudor.

Flintoff will stay on for the one-day games where he will be used as a specialist batsman.

Coach Duncan Fletcher said: "He was pretty disappointed when we had a chat with him last night. I still believe he probably will be able to bat at Test level but at this stage, to get the balance of the side right, it's crucial we bring in another all-rounder."