Schoolchildren from across the region have enjoyed a fantastic opportunity to learn cricket the Andrew Flintoff way!   Bolton School has played host to The Andrew Flintoff Cricket Academy, which saw 125 children, boys and girls aged 7-16 years old, receive coaching which was designed by "Freddie” himself and delivered by ECB qualified coaches.

The coaching has been designed to build upon existing talent and to unearth future stars.  Coach Jennifer Laycock said: “across the age groups there has been some real talent on show, some definite prospects for the future!”

Yousef Sharif, a Year 6 pupil at Bolton School, was delighted with the coaching and enthused: “It's been great.  I've improved my forward defensive and learnt two new bowling techniques.”

The fun-packed week was full of “Freddie Challenges”, mini tournaments and a final awards presentation.

Andrew Flintoff said: “Cricket has given me so much and my academy is the perfect way for me to pass on the passion and love I have for the game.  I truly believe my academies are ideal for everyone, from someone who simply enjoys the game to the next test star.”

The Andrew Flintoff Cricket Academy will run at six different venues throughout England over the summer. 

More academies for boys and girls are in the pipeline for next year and beyond.