England's team director Andy Flower was less optimistic about Flintoff's chances and said the all-rounder will play only if he is fit.

'I suppose with continued wear and tear the percentages would say that he probably is less likely to be able to get through the next Test, but he's a strong bloke,' said Flower.

'He's also got a strong body, a strong mind and a strong will, and he definitely wants to play these last two Tests. We've planned for the eventuality if he does pull out. He's pretty confident he'll play but we don't know how he's going to pull up after the exertions of the last Test,' he said.