England face the biggest challenge in cricket - but former star Steve Finn believes Brendon McCullum's men have what it takes to win the ultimate prize in Test cricket
18:00, 19 Nov 2025
It is England’s biggest challenge of them all - the Ashes in Australia. And Steve Finn has urged Ben Stokes and his side to win a ‘gladiatorial’ battle and turn themselves into cricketing legends.
As the hours tick away to tomorrow’s (FRI) first Test at the Optus Stadium in Perth, the hosts start the series as favourites to keep hold of the famous urn and inflict more pain on England on Aussie soil. Finn has experienced the highs and lows of an Ashes series Down Under, chronicled in his raw and emotional book entitled 'The Ashes Files'.
The fast bowler was part of the last England squad to triumph in Oz, back in 2011. But was also left broken by the humiliation of losing a series 5-0 three years later.
The experiences leave Finn convinced an Ashes series in Australia is still the most daunting and demanding challenge an Englishman will ever face. But he has told Brendon McCullum's England to embrace it - and show Australia what they're made of.
Finn, who was part of three Ashes winning sides, said: "It's still the greatest challenge. With the furore surrounding an Ashes series in Australia, it's something that's different to all other series you play in as an England cricketer.
READ MORE: Sir Jimmy Anderson sends Ashes reality check to England ahead of First TestREAD MORE: Australia legend Glenn McGrath DROPPED by host broadcaster on eve of Ashes"The attention and feeling that the entire country of Australia is against you, makes it very different to all the other tours you go on.
"It's the toughest examination, but it's also the most pleasing success if you come out on the right side of it.
"The anticipation is more than I can remember in terms of the build up to this one. It will be a gladiatorial contest between the two teams.
"They'll basically slug it out - and I can't wait to watch it. The pressure of the situation won't be lost on the players, but it's a fantastic opportunity to do something really special."
Few are better equipped than Finn to offer advice, when it comes to handling the intensity heading England's way. Finn lost his confidence and bowling action so badly during the whitewash of 2013/14, that he had to be sent home.
He said: "Never give up or go away. As a bowler in particular, you have to be willing to go back to the well. There will be long, hot days throughout the series, and having the want and will to keep coming back, late in a spell, in an attempt to affect the game positively, is something you need.
"That attitude and that heart, is needed to be able to succeed in Australia. And the best players I've seen go there and do that.
"It is challenging and tough, but embrace it and immerse yourself in the whole experience that is Australia, instead of shutting yourself away and hiding from it. I think these guys will do that." Finn can't wait to see speed king Jofra Archer rip into the Aussie batting line-up.
He added: "It will be a quick, bouncy pitch and seeing him operate, when you look at where the Aussie batting line up is strong, at four and five with Steve Smith and Travis Head, if there's one bowler who can ruffle their feathers it's him.
"As we saw in 2019, I really think Archer will be a critical component when it comes to winning the Ashes.
"If he's available for three out of the five matches I think that would be a great success. He can play a huge part."