Steven Finn, the former England fast bowler, has officially announced his retirement from professional cricket, concluding a career that spanned 18 years. The 34-year-old right-arm fast bowler, renowned for his height and bounce, took 125 wickets with an average of 30.40 across 36 Test matches from 2010 to 2016.
Beginning his cricket journey with Middlesex in June 2005, Finn’s first-class debut marked the start of an impressive career. However, he hasn’t participated in red-ball cricket since July of the previous year due to a knee injury. Over the years, Finn also played a significant role in limited-overs formats, contributing to 69 one-day internationals and 21 T20 matches for the English team.
In 2022, he transitioned to Sussex, where he amassed a remarkable record of 570 first-class wickets in 164 games, including his best figures of 9-37.
Finn candidly admitted his retirement was influenced by his ongoing battle with physical setbacks: “I have been fighting a battle with my body for the last 12 months and have admitted defeat to it.”
Reflecting on his career, Finn expressed gratitude for the opportunities he had: “To have played 126 games for England, including 36 Tests, far surpassed what I dreamed of.”
Standing tall at 6 feet 7 inches, Finn made his mark in county cricket at the young age of 16. His impact was notable during the Ashes series against Australia, where he made significant contributions, including a memorable 6-125 on his Ashes debut in 2010-11.
However, Finn’s journey wasn’t without challenges. He experienced periods of exclusion from the team and had to overcome technical issues with his bowling. Nevertheless, his dedication and determination led him to return to the Test team, where he achieved his best figures of 6-79 against Australia.
One of Finn’s unique traits, knocking the stumps during his delivery stride, even led to a change in cricket’s laws. His last Test match mirrored his first, taking place in Bangladesh in October 2016.
Finn’s cricketing journey reached its conclusion with a fitting last appearance for England in an ODI against South Africa in May 2017. His final first-class match took place at Lord’s, a venue with special significance, as he had previously won the Championship with Middlesex in 2016. His return, this time with Sussex, marked the end of an illustrious career.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Retirement
Who is Steven Finn and what is his cricket career known for?
Steven Finn is a former England fast bowler who recently announced his retirement after an 18-year career. His cricket career is known for his participation in Ashes series, injury battles, and significant contributions to the sport.
How many wickets did Steven Finn take during his Test career?
Steven Finn took 125 wickets in 36 Test appearances for England, with an average of 30.40.
What led to Steven Finn’s decision to retire?
Steven Finn mentioned that he had been battling with his body due to injuries for the past year and decided to retire as a result.
What other formats of cricket did Steven Finn play in?
Apart from Test matches, Steven Finn also played 69 one-day internationals (ODIs) and 21 Twenty20 (T20) matches for England.
What were some of the highlights of Steven Finn’s career?
Steven Finn’s career highlights include his participation in successful Ashes series, taking 6-125 on his Ashes debut, and his pivotal role in England’s victories.
What cricket law change is associated with Steven Finn?
Steven Finn’s habit of knocking the stumps in his delivery stride led to a change in cricket’s laws, where any wicket taken after such an action was deemed a no-ball.
When and where did Steven Finn’s cricket career begin and end?
Steven Finn began his cricket career with Middlesex in June 2005 and concluded it with his retirement while playing for Sussex.
What was the significance of Steven Finn’s height in his bowling style?
Steven Finn’s height, standing at 6 feet 7 inches, provided him with natural bounce and made him a valuable asset in England’s bowling lineup.
How did Steven Finn overcome challenges in his cricket journey?
Steven Finn faced challenges like exclusion from the team and technical issues with his bowling, but his determination and dedication led to his successful return to the Test team.
What were some of the memorable matches and moments in Steven Finn’s career?
Steven Finn’s career included significant matches like his debut in the Ashes series, his contributions to England’s victories, and achieving his best figures of 6-79 against Australia.
What was Steven Finn’s final appearance in international cricket?
Steven Finn’s final appearance in an England shirt was an ODI against South Africa in May 2017.
More about Retirement
- BBC Sport – Steven Finn: Former England fast bowler announces retirement
- Cricinfo – Steven Finn’s profile
- The Guardian – Steven Finn retires from professional cricket
- Sky Sports – Steven Finn announces retirement
- Cricket World – Steven Finn’s career highlights
5 comments
steven finn, true champ. remember his tall deliveries, those stunning wickets. injuries r part of sports. gonna tell my kids about his cricketing days!
big man finn, fast bowlin beast. ashes glories, battles, and finally retirement. his journey’s like a rollercoaster. hats off 2 his dedication. cricket’ll miss him.
steven finn, what a bowler! his tall frame, bounce, wicked wickets. but injuries, man, they caught him. sad 2 c him go. cheers to his memorable career!
finn, legend of england cricket. his wickets, those exciting matches. cricket law change coz of him! injuries took a toll tho. gonna cherish his moments.
wow, steven finn, retirin frm cricket? 18yrs is a looong time. he was sum bowler, remember his ashes days! injuries r tough. gonna miss him on the field.