Flintoff will replace Paul Collingwood. Photograph: Jason Cairnduff/Action Images

Andrew Flintoff will make his first Test appearance for England in 18 months in the second Test against South Africa at Headingley, captain Michael Vaughan has confirmed.

Vaughan stated that Flintoff will bat at No7, though he could not confirm who he would replace, as the final team line-up has been delayed until the morning of the match due to concerns over seam bowler Ryan Sidebottom’s fitness. Chris Tremlett has been called up by England as cover for Sidebottom, who has struggled with a back injury, and England are yet to decide whether a seam bowler or Paul Collingwood should make way for Flintoff.

“I will say that ‘Freddie’ Flintoff will play,” said Vaughan this morning. “He will bat at No7, and then the decision will be made whether we go for four bowlers or five. Whichever decision we make, Freddie will definitely bat at seven.”

As for Sidebottom’s fitness, it seems another close call will have to be made. “We are waiting on Ryan Sidebottom’s injury - and we are not going to know until the morning,” Vaughan added. “Chris Tremlett will come in as cover.”

About this articleCloseThis article was first published on guardian.co.uk on Thursday July 17 2008. It was last updated at 12:10 on July 17 2008.

guardian.co.uk