Aussies will get a big lift from KP's absence, feels Flintoff

London, July 23 (ANI): England all-rounder Andrew Flintoff has admitted that the Australians will receive a big boost from the absence of Kevin Pietersen, but insists that the victory at Lord's will help England to cope with the loss.

The Sun quoted Freddie, as saying: "It's disappointing because Kevin is a massive influence on our team. It's going to make things tougher for us. Kevin hasn't been himself for the past of couple of weeks. I know for a fact he has been feeling it. He will be greatly missed and we wish him well. He'll be gutted to miss the series."

"I'd imagine it would lift Australia. If the shoe was on the other foot and Ricky Ponting was injured, we'd be quite happy not having to bowl at him. And I think Australia will be thinking the same about Kevin.

But we have players who can come in. It sounds harsh - but we have to move on and get our bodies and minds right for Edgbaston next week," he added. (ANI)