Steven Finn could afford a smile throughout his interaction with the media at the Eden Gardens here on Monday. The England fast bowler, after missing the first two Tests due to a thigh injury, has reported fit for the third Test against India starting on Wednesday.
He bowled at practice session today and declared, “If I’m needed, I’ll be ready for the (third) Test. I’ve bowled (about six overs) at the nets and did exactly what I had planned to do.”
The 23-year-old Finn, who has played 16 Tests, was encouraged to be rated high by the team management. “I tend not to read too much. I try and stay in my little bubble.”
Frustrating
Confessing he was frustrated by the injury, Finn said, “I have never had something like this popping up before. It was alien and scary for me, very frustrating when I knew I had a good chance of playing the Test match. I feel fresh in the body and confident.”
Even as there was speculation that Finn may replace Stuart Broad in the Test here, he noted, “He is an exceptional bowler who has had a tough time with injuries. He is a world-class player and knows he will come back. He is not a million miles away from form.”
Finn was convinced there was a role for fast bowlers too in the sub-continent. “Fast bowlers have their roles in the team and if I am picked I might be used in short bursts. There is a bit of pressure when you are used as a strike bowler but you don’t give up your basics when you bowl. You still got to have a degree of patience.”
On looking to get Sachin Tendulkar’s wicket, Finn smiled, “Obviously the Indians have a very good batting line-up. It will be nice to get the wicket of somebody you have admired when growing up.”
