Flintoff back in the frame for recall to Lancashire's first team

The England all-rounder's fitness will be assessed in the hours leading up to the Twenty20 Cup match against Yorkshire tonight.

Flintoff gave the county a welcome boost by scoring 56 on his comeback for the second XI against Durham at Alderley Edge.

On the comeback trail: Lancashire's Andrew Flintoff.

He then went for a work-out after coming through his first match since May 9 following a side strain.

Second XI coach Gary Yates said: "The first team will know in the morning how he has held up and whether he joins them (against Yorkshire).

"Andrew is looking fit, not overweight, and quite strong. He is getting there.

"He is not feeling anything from his side and that is pleasing. But he will be need to be assessed again."

Flintoff quickly got into his stride in front of a bigger-than-average crowd at the picturesque Cheshire ground.

He gave them a glimpse of his batting prowess, hitting an unbeaten 32 in 40 minutes before lunch.

Flintoff carried on after the break where he left off and reached his 50 by smashing a towering six out of the ground.

He then almost broke a window in the pavilion with another fierce boundary before his innings came to a halt.

Yates added: "Andrew had a decent touch for someone who has not batted for so long.

"The only mistake he has made he has paid for it. But he has got 50 under his belt and his time at the crease will be important for him.

"I was hoping he would bat a bit longer but it was a patient innings by Andrew."