Tim Bresnan wants Freddie role

England all-rounder Tim Bresnan is confident he can stamp down a permanent place in the one-day team following impressive displays in South Africa.

The charismatic Yorkshireman has played a key role during the ongoing ODI series with the Proteas - impressing with the ball on his first international tour.

His performances have eased the burden on England's seam bowlers, who are once again without the assistance of influential all-rounder Andrew Flintoff through injury.

Indeed, Bresnan's 80 against Australia in the ICC Champions Trophy also showed his competence with the bat, however he has only been called upon once during the ODI series with South Africa.

And, as the 24-year-old prepares to help England clinch what would be a notable ODI series victory at Kingsmead on Friday, he admits playing the Flintoff role on a permanent basis would be something he would relish.

Pressure

"I'd like a crack at it," he said.

"I'm looking forward to getting that chance - and when I do I hope I don't let myself down, and I show what I can do."

But Bresnan, despite his promising start to international cricket, will not be making the mistake of putting unnecessary pressure on himself.

"I'm happy where I am at the moment - bowling like I am and batting at eight," he said.

"If they want to shove me higher up in the order, I wouldn't disagree with that.

"I'd love to get a few more overs with the bat in my hand."

Bresnan has also praised the team ethic and camaraderie in and around the England squad - with pace partner James Anderson, bowling coach Ottis Gibson and head coach Andy Flower singled out for their contributions.

Relaxed
"Jimmy's good - obviously the senior bowler and very experienced," he confirmed.

"The communication between all us bowlers is very, very good.

"'It's swinging; it's not swinging. He's hanging back; he's coming at you'. Little things like that can give you something extra."

The laid back approach from both Gibson and Flower appears to be rubbing off on Bresnan, who has taken three wickets in the series so far.

"Ottis Gibson helps with the little things - 'Why did you do that?', 'Why didn't you do that?' - questioning you all the time. That's quite good," Bresnan said.

"Andy's brilliant. He's quite relaxed as well, and just lets you go out there and express yourself.