London, July 2 : South African fast bowler Shaun Pollock has said that England all rounder Andrew Flintoff is the player his countrymen fear most.

On Thursday, England will name their squad to face South Africa in the opening Test of the four-match series starting at Lord's on July 10.

Injury plagued all-rounder Flintoff is not expected to be included in the team. He has recovered from a thigh strain, but is without a wicket from 34 overs in Lancashire's match with Sussex, The Sun reported.

Pollock believed that England would be wise not to rush the 30-year-old, and said South Africa will breathe a sigh of relief if he is left out.

"Fred is such a class player that you always feel you want him in your side, but they will analyse it from the medical point of view and see whether it is a risk," he said.

"I'm sure they'd love to have him in the side, but I'd understand if they don't risk him in the first and use him in the second. There is no doubt he is a big player and if he bowls like he can and contributes with the bat, he can win games for you," Pollock added.

ANI