Flintoff says his motive for freelancing cannot be questioned

London, Sep.29 (ANI): Former England Test star Andrew Flintoff has said that his decision for taking up his new freelance cricket career cannot be questioned.

The 31-year-old all-rounder became the first player to turn down an international contract, and will instead tread his own path as a 'gun for hire' hoping to secure lucrative short-term deals around the world, reports The Sun.

The England management reacted by asking his agent Chubby Chandler to put in writing that international cricket will always come first. And while they have agreed to this, Flintoff believes comebacks from numerous operations throughout his career should have already proved his commitment.

Speaking at the launch of his new book Ashes to Ashes, he said: "I don't see this decision as a big deal, or something that will affect the team. I'll still be available for one-day internationals, I'll always make myself available to play for England, in limited overs cricket and Twenty20."

"In an ideal world I'd still be playing Test cricket. When you've had six operations in four years, you have to say enough is enough," he added.

Flintoff insists passion for his country has always been his main motivation during spells of rehab, including his current recovery from knee surgery.

And provided his most recent operation proves a success, the two-time Ashes winner believes cricket fans are set to see the best of him in the one-day arena. (ANI)