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Update: Future England Cricket Star - Steven Finn

19th August 2009

You may recall our news article on the 31st July when we announced sponsoring an up and coming England Cricketer by the name of Steven Finn. We committed to providing you regular updates on his season and his thoughts about current major tournaments and we are now delighted to bring you Steve’s 1st personal narrative.

Steven Finn’s Blog – 19th Aug 2009

“To be able to play for a cricket club with the history of Middlesex CCC, it is an honour to walk through the long room at Lord's every day, knowing that lots of cricketers who have preceded me have gone on to represent their country. Emburey, Edmonds, Gatting, Turfnell and Fraser are all household names that many of you will be aware of. As someone starting their career you are always hiding in such 'big names' shadows. However, as the modern game progresses and players evolve into athletes, anything is possible in a world where opportunities are limitless. I am trying to make the most of these opportunities early in my career in order to achieve my ultimate goal of playing for England.

My Season So Far

During 2009 I have made it my chief aim to not be left 'wanting' in any situation, and I am currently enjoying the most successful season of my career thus far. It is no secret that with the continuous backing of many people behind me, it is helping me to relax and perform on the pitch. The hectic schedule of the season means that there is little time for reprieve or reflection as you move from one game to the next with no break whatsoever, so when you are on a roll you have to cash in. Thankfully, the ball has been coming out of my hand well this year (without meaning to tempt fate), and consistency in performance is something that I have tried to pride myself on. 40 wickets in the Championship so far, with a further 15 in other competitions is hopefully showing that my personal development is moving along smoothly. With the odd blip here and there!

The Middlesex CCC Team

As a team this year, we have not managed to live up to expectations. A predominantly young side has struggled to find consistent form, which can be forgiven, seeing as people are learning their games in the first class arena. Over the coming years it will be a mere afterthought in the back of peoples minds when this team is winning trophies consistently J

My thoughts On The Ashes

A very current point of interest is the Ashes battle between England and Australia, two teams contesting the most eagerly anticipated cricket series in the world. With their series drawn 1-1 coming in to the last test it is exciting to see the way the teams are reacting. Both sides admitting this is the biggest game of their careers. They don't come much tighter than this. However, a test match can be set up in the first session of the game. Who does what first is irrelevant in such a huge game. If the bowling team take early wickets (as Australia did in the 4th test), then the batting team are always clawing the game back from the outset. Likewise, if the batting team reach lunch with 10 men still in the sheds then they are in a great position to assert their authority on the game and post a mammoth score. Both teams have players who can influence the team greatly, with England being buoyed by the return of Andrew Flintoff, the one player Australia fear. It will be an interesting duel at the Oval, with the game ebbing and flowing in either direction. But, with the way England have approached their cricket this series, and the doggedness of their captain Andrew Strauss, I think England will edge one of the greatest test matches in history.

Here's to the nation celebrating a Herculean effort from their cricket stars and leaving another legacy for the next generation to follow in 4 years time! (which will hopefully include me)”

All the best,
Steve

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