(AFP) - England all-rounder Andrew Flintoff aims to make his long-awaited comeback in the Lions tour of India as he steps up his recovery from ankle surgery.
Flintoff, 30, has been in America for rehabilitation after his operation in October and has not been considered for England's tour to New Zealand in March.
But the Lancashire star could feature as a batsman in the Lions team which will compete in The Duleep Trophy later this month.
"They are very happy with his rehab," said England 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."