Andrew Flintoff’s unforgettable five-wicket haul delivers England a historic victory over Australia, breaking a 75-year Lord's curse
In what would become a legendary performance, Andrew Flintoff etched his name into cricketing history on July 20, 2009. On this day, England secured a monumental Ashes Test victory at Lord's after a 75-year wait, thanks to Flintoff’s heroic five-wicket haul. It was his first five-wicket return since the Ashes-clinching Oval Test of 2005, and it fittingly came in his final Test appearance at the home of cricket.
England set the tone with a strong first-inning total of 425, followed by a declaration at 311 for 6 in their second inning. Australia, despite a spirited fightback in their second inning, fell short of the 522-run target, managing 406. Flintoff's 5 for 92, alongside Graeme Swann’s 4 for 87, were instrumental in securing a 115-run victory for England.
The final day began with England needing five wickets to seal the win and Australia requiring an improbable 209 runs. The tension was palpable as James Anderson and Andrew Flintoff steamed in from the Pavilion End. Anderson’s first delivery cannoned into Michael Clarke’s thigh, setting the tone for a series of intense LBW appeals that reverberated around the grandstands.
Flintoff, pushing through the pain of a knee that had endured years of numbing injections, struck early. His fourth ball of the day removed Brad Haddin, who had been Australia’s hope with a composed 80 on Sunday. Haddin edged a fast, full delivery to Paul Collingwood at second slip, sparking jubilant scenes among the English players and fans alike.
Andrew Flintoff delivers a spellbinding performance, claiming five wickets to lead England to victory // Picture Courtesy -- The Independent
Flintoff's relentless aggression and pace were too much for the Australians to handle. His energy was infectious, lifting the team and the crowd. His first five-wicket haul at Lord's was not just a personal milestone but a critical moment that swung the momentum firmly in England's favour. Flintoff’s removal of Haddin with a delivery that coaxed an edge perfectly illustrated his skill and determination.
Michael Clarke, Australia’s centurion, continued to play with poise and elegance. His battle with Flintoff was a highlight, with Clarke deftly handling most deliveries and driving with sublime timing. However, a change in the bowling lineup brought about his downfall. Swann, bowling with a slower, looping delivery, deceived Clarke, causing the ball to spin just enough to clip the off stump. Clarke's departure for a magnificent 136 left Australia reeling.
Mitchell Johnson attempted to rally, finding some form and hitting a quick-fire half-century. However, Flintoff was not to be denied his moment of glory. He bowled Peter Siddle to complete his five-wicket haul, and Swann finished off the match by dismissing Johnson, sparking wild celebrations on the field and in the stands.
This victory was a watershed moment for English cricket. The scenes of celebration as Graeme Swann pegged back Mitchell Johnson's middle stump, sealing the win, were a sight not witnessed at Lord's in decades. Flintoff’s performance, characterised by sheer determination and passion, ensured his place as one of England’s cricketing legends.
The England team celebrates a historic victory at Lord's, ending a 75-year wait for an Ashes Test win at the venue // Picture Courtesy -- The Mirror
Flintoff's handshake with the vanquished Johnson and Hilfenhaus reflected the spirit of cricket that had been bruised over the preceding days. It was a fitting end to Flintoff's storied career at Lord's, capturing the essence of sportsmanship and competitive spirit.
The victory also marked a significant shift in the series momentum, with England taking a 1-0 lead heading into Edgbaston. Flintoff’s heroics will forever be remembered as the catalyst for breaking the 75-year Lord's Ashes curse.
