KP has just taken on the most stressful job in world cricket: Flintoff

Kevin Pietersen has just walked into one of the most stressful jobs in world cricket - that of being the new England captain - says all-rounder Andrew `Freddie Flintoff.

London, Aug.5 : Kevin Pietersen has just walked into one of the most stressful jobs in world cricket - that of being the new England captain - says all-rounder Andrew `Freddie' Flintoff.

Flintoff believes Pietersen's trademark swagger will help him make the step up, but cautions him that achieving or overtaking predecessor Michael Vaughan's 26 Test match win record will be a huge challenge.

"Taking over from Vaughan is massive. But the lad who's coming in will believe he can fill those boots - he's a very confident guy and an unbelievable cricketer. The qualities that make him the player he is are the same ones he will take into his captaincy. He will believe he can be the best captain ever - he's that kind of bloke. Things are about to get very exciting," The Sun quoted Flintoff, as saying.

Flintoff has backed Pietersen to succeed where he failed.

He said: "The captain needs his players and I'll be there for him, as I'm sure the other lads will too. Anyone taking a job like this will seek advice from a number of people - and Kev knows my door is always open to him. It's a tough job. You are constantly scrutinised and the pressure is always there. The one thing you need is people around you to talk. That was one thing I don't think I was particularly good at or had, but I'm sure Kevin will."

Flintoff said that he was surprised when Vaughan told him he was quitting the captaincy.

"He's helped all of us out with our careers but he's going out like this. He deserved to go out on a high, not a series defeat to South Africa," the all-rounder said.

ANI