Steven Finn has thrown his support behind Ollie Robinson, insisting the recalled England bowler will prove his doubters wrong and demonstrate why he is a 'world-class' talent. The 32-year-old seamer has been named in the 15-player squad for the first Test of the summer against New Zealand, marking his return to the red-ball setup after a two-year absence.
Robinson's Comeback
Robinson last played for England in February 2024, with fitness concerns keeping him out of contention. However, impressive displays in the County Championship, where he captains Sussex, have forced a recall. In five matches this season, he has taken 17 wickets at an average of 26.17 and even scored an unbeaten century against Surrey.
His inclusion comes after England's dismal Ashes campaign in Australia last winter, where Brendon McCullum's side lost 4-1. Robinson, who was playing grade cricket for Sydney University at the time, now has a chance to reclaim his spot.
Finn's Verdict
Three-time Ashes winner Steven Finn has no doubts about Robinson's ability. 'He's clearly had a couple of years out of the team, but he's a world-class bowler, there's no doubt,' Finn said. 'His statistics and the way that he influences games are what make him such a fantastic bowler. The door has been opened for him by the guys in charge at the ECB. If he were to get his opportunity in the starting XI, I'm sure he'd make the most of it because he's a very good bowler.'
Squad Highlights
Alongside Robinson, the squad includes Josh Tongue, who impressed with 18 wickets in three Tests during the Ashes. Uncaptured trio Emilio Gay, James Rew, and Sonny Baker have also been called up, while Zak Crawley and Ollie Pope miss out.
Finn also backed Tongue to thrive in home conditions. 'Tongue is definitely someone to keep an eye on. The way that he bowled in Australia, how aggressive he was and how he looked to take wickets is something that will suit the balance of the attack here in England.'
Jamie Smith's Potential
The former bowler turned broadcaster also expressed confidence in Jamie Smith, who struggled in Australia. 'Jamie Smith is someone else I'm excited to see develop as an international player because I look at him and think he's someone who could average 50 in Test match cricket with the way that he plays. Seeing him in the team will be a good thing.'
Charity Support
Finn was speaking at the Deecon Consulting and Winged Boots Golf Day, raising funds for the Ruth Strauss Foundation. The charity supports families with a parent facing incurable cancer, helping them navigate difficult conversations with their children. On Friday 5 June, Lord's will host the annual #RedforRuth Test match, turning the ground red in memory of Ruth Strauss, who passed away from lung cancer in 2018.
Finn added: 'I knew Ruth and played with Andrew for a long time, and I'm very friendly with the family, so to be able to support a charity that's close to my heart is something that means a lot to me. I try to do as much as I can to support the charity and I'm really proud to be involved. I can't imagine how difficult it is to come to terms with and to plan with the knowledge that that's going to happen. The more awareness and money that we can raise for the charity, the more families will be helped, and that can only be a good thing.'
For more information on supporting the Ruth Strauss Foundation, visit their website.
