First Exclusive Interview: Andrew Flintoff Breaks Silence on Terrifying Top Gear Crash

Former England cricket captain Andrew "Freddie" Flintoff has made his first public statement since being hospitalized following an accident while filming the well-known motoring show "Top Gear." In a video posted on social media by the England Cricket team on Wednesday, Flintoff can be seen presenting an England cap to current spin bowler Tom Hartley before his debut last month. In his speech, Flintoff expressed his gratitude for the support he has received following the accident.

Flintoff suffered broken ribs and facial injuries in the December 2022 crash. Even after nine months, he continues to bear noticeable facial cuts and scars.

Addressing Hartley, Flintoff spoke emotionally about how receiving this cap has truly transformed his life. It represents a clear distinction between the time before and after it.

This allows you to stand tall and move quickly. Engage in the game with passion, pride, and belief. Moreover, become a member of a close-knit community.

They will accompany you during the moments of triumph and joy. However, as I have discovered in recent months, they will also support you during the most difficult moments of your life, standing steadfastly by your side.

Flintoff has maintained a low-key presence following the incident, only making a rare public appearance when he observed England's first one-day international against New Zealand in September. In recent months, he has been informally collaborating with the England coaching staff.

Flintoff (second from left) worked with the England team last month.

Matthew Childs/Action Images/Reuters

The 45-year-old announced his retirement from all forms of cricket in 2010, at age 32, because of a long-standing knee injury.

In 2005, he achieved the pinnacle of his cricket career by leading England to reclaim the Ashes from Australia, signifying their first victory over their rivals in 18 years. Following his retirement, he shifted his focus towards the media industry and assumed the role of a co-host for "Top Gear" in 2019.

In February of that year, Flintoff collided with a market stall during the filming of the show but fortunately emerged uninjured.

The latest series of "Top Gear" had its production suspended by the BBC in March this year, as they conducted an investigation into Flintoff's accident in December.

The previous cricket star is not the sole "Top Gear" presenter who has experienced a high-speed collision during show filming.

Back in 2006, Richard Hammond was involved in a devastating crash while operating a Vampire jet car at a blazing speed of 288 miles per hour. This collision resulted in him being in a coma for a period of two weeks and enduring severe head injuries. However, he managed to survive the ordeal and made a remarkable comeback to the series.

CNNs Jack Guy and Toyin Owoseje contributed reporting.