The impact of Andrew Flintoff in the 2005 series forced Australia to discard their traditional six batsmen and four bowlers approach to accommodate a genuine all-rounder.

A plethora of injury problems to Shane Watson and off-spinner Nathan Hauritz's worrying lack of form are likely to force the tourists to turn to part-time spinner Marcus North as their all-rounder.

A fully-fit Flintoff gives England the extra option of playing an additional spinner or seamer.

But whether the Lancastrian's form with the bat can justify the number six slot remains a headache for the selectors.