3 minute read

Rocky Flintoff stroked three boundaries, but it was swing specialist Sam Cook who impressed most on day one of England Lions' tour of Australia.

Ashes aspirant Sam Cook has starred for England A, claiming Peter Handscomb's scalp on a chaotic day in which Rocky Flintoff was among those who felt ball dominating bat.

Cook underlined his talent by snaring 4-12 in a six-over opening spell on day one of the England Lions' tour game against a Cricket Australia XI in Brisbane.

Former Test batter Handscomb, recently overlooked for Australia's tour of Sri Lanka, fell for two as his side collapsed to 5-36 late on Tuesday in response to the visitors' 223. 

Cook, who is yet to play for England in any format, and teammates have a golden chance to make a big impression on selectors ahead of the 2025-26 Ashes.

Perhaps the most notable name in the touring squad is 16-year-old Rocky Flintoff.

He is the son of iconic allrounder Andrew, who is coaching the Lions.

Rocky Flintoff made his first-class debut for Lancashire during the English summer amid a rapid rise, then was a late call-up for the Lions' tour of South Africa in December.

Flintoff scored 19 at Ian Healy Oval on Tuesday, stroking three boundaries before he offered Handscomb a catch off the bowling of Charlie Anderson.

Forgotten paceman Cameron Gannon, who starred for WA in the 2023-24 Sheffield Shield final, snared impressive figures of 5-27 for the hosts.