 Bell and Collingwood looked in good nick for the tourists |
Andrew Flintoff says England's efforts against South Australia show they are in good shape for the Ashes series. The tourists ended day two on 303-6, 56 ahead after Ian Bell hit 132 and Paul Collingwood weighed in with 80.
"We're progressing nicely. In the past week we've shown improvements in all areas of the game," the skipper said.
"We want batters to score hundreds and Ian's done that and Paul Collingwood, getting the chance to bat at number four, responded really well."
England's batting order has been reshuffled following Marcus Trescothick's return home because of a stress-related illness.
 | We've done well since we've been here and we're getting better |
It meant Bell played at three in Adelaide, while Collingwood was promoted to four, and Flintoff believes they will cope without the opener.
"Paul can adapt to situations - that's one of his strengths - and I think Belly's relishing the chance to bat at three.
"It's unfortunate Marcus has gone but as a side we have to move on. We're getting better each day, building up to that big game next Thursday.
"There's a lot of character in this side and they have responded well - as they did in India.
"We've done well since we've been here, worked hard at our games and we're getting better."
606 DEBATE: How will you keep up with the Ashes action?
Looking ahead to the start of the Test series, Flintoff said: "There's a real nice feel within the dressing room and everyone realises what it means to each and every one of us, what it means to people watching back home.
"Having been involved in one Ashes series before in England and experienced the emotion of it - the enormity of it - to have a chance to play in another one in Australia is exciting for every member of our team, the players, the support staff and everyone involved."
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Interview: England captain Andrew Flintoff