LANCASHIRE cricket manager Mike Watkinson shielded Andrew Flintoff from any criticism after a wild shot cost him his wicket in a 17-run defeat to Leicestershire in the Benson & Hedges Cup North group at Old Trafford yesterday.
The Red Rose county must now win their clash with Yorkshire today to stand any chance of qualifying for the quarter-finals as one of the two 'best losers' in third place.
Needing 40 runs in eight overs and within sight of his own half-century, Flintoff - making his first appearance of the season in a Lancashire shirt - aimed an ugly heave at Vince Wells that left his stumps spreadeagled as Lancashire fell short of Leicestershire's 175 for nine.
But Watkinson said: "It is one of those shots where, if it comes off, everybody says well done, but if it doesn't they all say what a bad choice of shot.
"He got 40-odd runs, which is a lot more than other people got in those circumstances."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article