Ashes winner Steven Finn on the secret to winning the urn in Australia - Stumped, BBC World Service

Key Concepts

• The Ashes Files: Steven Finn's book documenting his experiences in the Ashes series.
• Cathartic Process: Writing the book helped Finn revisit and process past memories.
• 2010/11 Ashes Win: Finn's experience of winning the Ashes in Australia.
• 2013/14 Tour: Finn's difficult experience, including being sent home from Australia.
• 2015 Ashes Win: Finn's comeback and contribution to England's victory.
• Psychological Resilience: The importance of stubbornness, belief, and support in overcoming setbacks.
• Playing in Australia: The unique challenge of facing the Australian public and team.
• Preparation for the Ashes: Differences in preparation between the 2010/11 tour and the current one.
• Australian Team Dynamics: Perceived turbulence and question marks within the current Australian squad.
• Bowling in Australia: The physical and technical demands on bowlers.
• The Ashes Rivalry: Its legacy, intensity, and unique furore.
• Player Contracts: Significance of central contract lengths for player motivation and future planning.
• Series Prediction: Finn's belief that this is England's best chance to win in Australia in 15 years.
• Barmy Army: The significant support expected from English fans.

Steven Finn's "The Ashes Files" and His Ashes Journey

Steven Finn, a three-time Ashes winner with over 120 appearances for England, discusses his new book, "The Ashes Files," which chronicles his experiences in the prestigious Ashes series. Finn describes the writing process as "cathartic," allowing him to vividly recall memories, both good and bad, from his tours. His motivation for writing the book was to tell the story of his journey from a hopeful 20-year-old entering the England team to being sent home from Australia in 2013/14, and then rebuilding his career to play a significant role in the 2015 Ashes victory.

Overcoming Adversity: The 2013/14 Tour and Comeback

Finn details the profound impact of being sent home from Australia during the 2013/14 Ashes, describing it as "the most depressing demoralizing three months of your life." He attributes his comeback to "stubbornness first and foremost," coupled with unwavering belief in his ability to return. Crucially, he highlights the vital support he received from Richard Johnson and Angus Fraser, his Middlesex director of cricket and bowling coach, who helped him rebuild his confidence and belief. This process involved gradually convincing his mind and body to perform again, while actively insulating himself from negative memories.

Lessons from the 2010/11 Ashes Victory

Reflecting on the successful 2010/11 tour, Finn emphasizes the key to success in Australia: "not to let yourself be bullied by Australia." He explains that touring Australia means facing not just the 15 players but an entire country, necessitating strong team togetherness. However, he also notes that earning the respect of Australians is possible through the manner of play. He recalls how England stood their ground in the first Test, earning Australian respect, and how, as the tour progressed and England turned the tide, the Australian public began to support them. Finn believes this approach of not backing down from challenges bodes well for England in the upcoming Ashes.

Preparation and Team Dynamics: A Comparison

Jim Maxwell raises concerns about England's current preparation for the Ashes, contrasting it with the thoroughness of the 2010/11 tour. He points to recent poor performances in New Zealand and a seemingly less rigorous schedule leading up to the first Test. Finn acknowledges the validity of this point but offers a caveat: the 2010/11 team had not played as a unit from mid-September, making extensive preparation necessary to regain rhythm. He argues that the current squad, having been in New Zealand playing matches, has had some match practice and team cohesion. While he agrees that playing a full XI against an Australian A team would be beneficial to "dust off those test match cobwebs," he notes that the team management doesn't deem it essential. He also points out that England has generally started away tours well under the McCullum-Stokes era, with the concern being how they fall away through the series.

Assessing the Australian Team and England's Chances

Pat Cummins, the Australian captain, has downplayed concerns about his team's aging squad, asserting they still have outstanding players. Finn, however, expresses optimism for England's chances, citing "turbulence in and around the Australian team." He contrasts this with the settled nature of previous Australian Ashes squads, where teams could be named months in advance. Finn points to uncertainties in the Australian lineup, such as the opening batsmen and the integration of all-rounders Cameron Green and Beau Webster, as indicators of this turbulence. He reiterates his belief that England's approach of not being blown away and fighting back will serve them well. He dismisses the age of Australian players as irrelevant for an Ashes series, emphasizing that the focus should be on playing the best XI.

The Pressure on Bowlers and Bowling Discipline in Australia

Charu Sharma inquires about the pressure on bowlers, given the perceived strength of both bowling attacks. Finn acknowledges the physicality of bowling in Australia, citing the heat, humidity, and hard pitches. He stresses the importance of having a deep bowling squad due to the lack of rest for bowlers in England's aggressive style of play. He elaborates on the discipline required for bowling in Australia, emphasizing the need for fuller lengths with intent and proper bouncers, as Australian batsmen are adept at handling deliveries between hip and shoulder height. Finn highlights the importance of a "big heart" and a mindset of "willing to continue to go back to the well," meaning bowlers must maintain their intensity throughout their spells, regardless of fatigue.

The Enduring Specialness of the Ashes Rivalry

Finn discusses what makes the Ashes so special, attributing it to its long legacy, storied history, and intense rivalry. He contrasts it with other captivating Test series, like the recent one against India, by highlighting the unique "furore" surrounding the Ashes. This includes the build-up, intensity, media headlines, and the reception England receives upon arriving in Australia, which he considers a challenge that sets the Ashes apart from any other in cricket. He believes winning the Ashes is therefore "extra special."

Player Contracts and Ben Stokes' Significance

Regarding player contracts, Finn suggests not reading too much into short-term selection implications. However, he notes that one-year central contracts can serve as a motivator, keeping players "on your toes and on your guard." He shares his experience of playing in an era of only one-year contracts, where players lived "year by year." He sees the security of two-year contracts as settling for players. The signing of Ben Stokes to a contract through to the 2027 Ashes is seen as significant, indicating a long-term commitment to a key player.

Predictions for the Ashes Series

When asked for predictions, Finn anticipates a "close series" where neither team will dominate. He firmly believes this is "England's best chance in 15 years" to win in Australia. He clarifies that this doesn't mean England will definitively win, but rather that the conditions and the Australian team's current state present a significant opportunity. He suggests Australians might misinterpret this as a prediction of an outright win, when in fact, he foresees a tightly fought contest with critical moments deciding the outcome.

Post-Interview Discussion and Fan Support

Jim Maxwell agrees with Finn's assessment that this is England's best chance in 15 years, especially considering recent series losses in Australia. He hopes for a contest that Australian supporters, as well as English fans, will enjoy. He anticipates a series with "glittering performances" and potentially quick Test matches. The significant support expected from approximately 40,000 British fans, the "Barmy Army," is highlighted as a crucial factor that can amplify the atmosphere and support for the England team.