Flintoff is England cricketer of year

Andrew Flintoff has been named England cricketer of the year for 2006.

The all-rounder added the award to that of international cricketer of the year which he shared with South Africa all-rounder Jacques Kallis last October.

"To be named is a great honour," Flintoff said.

Flintoff, who leads his country for the first time on home soil in the opening Test against Sri Lanka at Lord's this week, was the obvious choice after an outstanding 12 months during which England beat Australia to win the Ashes.

"It's been a fantastic year for English cricket," he said. "I'm very proud to have been able to play a part in regaining the Ashes.

"The support I've received from the British public has been very humbling. I'm now looking forward to building on this success during what promises to be a very exciting summer for English cricket as we head towards another Ashes series and a World Cup Campaign this winter."