Flintoff in reckoning for Champions Trophy: ECB

London, Sep 3 (UNI) Andrew Flintoff might find a place in England's team for the October-November Champions Trophy in India but the talismanic all-rounder's role could be restricted only to batting as he races against time to be fit for the Ashes.

England's Chairman of selectors David Graveney revealed that the stand-in for Michael Vaughan is recovering well and might be included in the team but only as a batsman.

''We will consult our medics, but it's extremely positive Freddie has got a chance. There has been talk of him playing as a batsman in the initial stages,'' Graveney was quoted by the BBC Sport as saying.

The talismanic all-rounder has been forced out of action by a nagging ankle injury, which was operated upon in July and might be back as the skipper of the team if he manages to recover in time but Graveney refused to comment on the matter.

England will be announcing their team for the Champions Trophy on September 7.

''The selectors haven't even discussed the question of the captaincy yet,'' he said.

Meanwhile, Graveney said the spinner Ashley Giles, who has not played this summer due to various injuries, might also be back for the showpiece event.

''Giles has now been signed off and he's now concentrating on cricket-related skills. He's walking through his bowling action now, which is a very positive sign,'' Graveney said.

''We're going to have to put people in there who we're not quite sure about,'' he added.

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