Mahmood turns to Freddie

Sajid Mahmood admits his leap up to Test cricket has been swift © Getty Images

England new boy Sajid Mahmood is hoping some wise words from Lancashire team-mate Andrew Flintoff will calm his nerves this week.

Mahmood celebrated his England call-up by joining forces with Flintoff as Lancashire crushed Northamptonshire by eight wickets in the C&G Trophy at Wantage Road.

However, the seamer knows it will be a whole new ball game with Duncan Fletcher's squad at Lord's ahead of the first Test at Lord’s, which starts on Thursday.

Mahmood said: “I'm not the sort to get nervous. I'm more excited but I think there'll be some nerves if I'm picked to play.

“Freddie (Flintoff) was one of the first to say congratulations and it would be great to play in a side captained by him.

“He's already given me a few tips about how to stay calm and I'm sure he'll keep the advice coming.

“When I found out I was picked I was chuffed. To play my first Test match in England especially at Lord's would be fantastic.

“It's been a very quick rise for me to reach this level and it's all down to the coaching I've received at Lancashire.”

The 24-year-old has impressed during the early stages of the Liverpool Victoria County Championship and claims he is primed to carry that form forward against Sri Lanka.

Flintoff on his return to action for Lancashire at Northants © Getty Images

He added: “My bowling is really good at the moment. I've got really good rhythm and the mental side of my game is just right.

“It's a step up but I know if I continue this form I can do a job for England if I'm in the team.”

Flintoff claimed three wickets and a catch in Lancashire's romp to victory and admitted he was not surprised by Mahmood's call-up.

He said: “This is a great opportunity for Sajid and he certainly deserves it. He is bowling superbly this season and everyone knows he is an exciting prospect.

“I think we have a lot of quality bowlers to choose from and there is real strength throughout the squad. English cricket is in good hands with this team.”

Flintoff could not be happier with his own form after making his first competitive start of the season - he returned figures of 3-30 - and admitted he was relishing the prospect of leading his country at the home of cricket.

But he urged England captain Michael Vaughan to make a swift return to fitness.

He added: “I'm just glad to be back playing again I've been looking forward for this game for ages and I couldn't think of a better way to warm up than taking three wickets.

“I'm looking forward to meeting up with the lads but I'm only keeping Michael Vaughan's captaincy warm. I can't wait for him to get back into the side.”