FREDDY Flintoff was set to make a return to County Test Cricket with the Second XI at Blackpool against Derbyshire last week, but yet more Lancashire rain meant that Flintoff's long awaited return was again delayed.

Flintoff returned for the Red Rose in a One Day game with Sri Lanka 'A' at Liverpool on Sunday afternoon, a game in which he was a batter only, just like he will be in the test which will start today. Lancashire beat Sri Lanka by 35 runs, with Andrew nocking four, fours on his way to a total of 25.

Lancashire have confirmed that Flintoff had been bowling on a short run up in the nets and should be able to start bowling in matches again within the next few weeks.

One man on the Lancashire books who is particularly looking forward to playing at Liverpool Cricket Club again is bowler Sajid Mahmood, who is finding form again following his hernia operation.

“I do enjoy bowling here, and we were just talking about that in the dressing room,” said Mahmood talking to Lancashire's Official Site (lccc.co.uk) following the 35 run win over Sri Lanka, at Liverpool.

“I just try to put the ball in the right areas, and this ground seems to help me out quite a bit. It would be really good if we could do what we did (against Sussex) last year. But they are a good side, and it’s going to be tough.”

“All I can do is make sure I repeat what I have done here again. Just put the ball in the right areas - and try to get the wickets that way.”

Lancashire's squad for the game: Mark Chilton (Cpt), Paul Horton, Mal Loye, Brad Hodge, Stuart Law, Andrew Flintoff, Steven Croft, Luke Sutton (Wkt), Dominic Cork, Glen Chapple, Tom Smith, Oliver Newby, Sajid Mahmood, Gary Keedy, Muttiah Muralitharan.

Time of start: 11am.