JAMSHEDPUR, April 12: England coach Duncan Fletcher has hinted top players like Andrew Flintoff could miss the Champions Trophy in India to prepare for the Ashes series later this year.

Fletcher, who wants a fresh squad for the first of five Ashes Tests against Australia starting in Brisbane on Nov 23, is worried his players may be tired when the Champions Trophy ends on Nov 5.

“We will look to see who will need a rest before going to Australia and we will make plans accordingly,” Fletcher said on Wednesday.

“We will have to look at the Champions Trophy and see what our attitude is towards it.”

“I'm looking at all the players all the time. That's why I'm pulling guys out because I'm looking at September when people are just looking at the next week.

“You've just got to look quite a long way away down the line.”—AFP