Archive · 7 Nov 2025
Steven Finn: Targeting Ben Stokes could backfire on Australian media
A former cricket player named Steven Finn talked about how the Australian news is writing mean things about England's captain, Ben Stokes, as he arrived for a big cricket series called the Ashes.
Steven Finn thinks that Ben Stokes, like some other athletes, plays even better when people try to make him angry or doubt him.
He said that calling him names might actually make Ben play harder and better.
Steven also mentioned that Australian crowds like players who win, and if the Australian team doesn't play well, the crowd might even cheer for England!
He advised that if players are respectful and play well, they can handle the challenge of playing in Australia.
England hasn't won a big series there in a while, so this could be an interesting challenge.
Steven Finn believes the Australian media's targeting of Ben Stokes could be counterproductive.
Finn stated that Stokes performs better when he has a point to prove and is provoked.
The West Australian newspaper called Stokes 'Cocky Captain Complainer' upon his arrival.
Finn suggested that Australian crowds respect winners and can turn against the home team.
England's last Test victory in Australia was in 2011.
- Who
- Former England fast bowler Steven Finn
- What
- Reacted to Australian media targeting England captain Ben Stokes ahead of the Ashes series, suggesting it could motivate Stokes and backfire.
- When
- Ahead of the Ashes 2025-26 series
- Where
- Australia
- Why
- Steven Finn believes Ben Stokes performs better when provoked and that the Australian media's approach could fuel his performance.
Finn's View
Australian Media Tactics
Provocation of Ben Stokes
Finn's View
Finn believes provoking Stokes makes him perform better and more determined.
Australian Media Tactics
The West Australian newspaper has targeted Stokes with critical headlines upon his arrival.
Crowd and Media Influence
Finn's View
Finn suggests Australian crowds respect winners and can turn against the home team if they don't perform.
Australian Media Tactics
Finn cautions that the Australian press aims to find weaknesses and trip up players.
- Former England Fast Bowler
- Steven Finn
- Australian Newspaper Target
- The West Australian
- Stokes' Newspaper Moniker
- Cocky Captain Complainer
- Date of First Ashes Test
- November 21
- Last England Test Win in Australia
- 2011 (Sydney)