Luke Davies
A TNT Sports pundit who had been providing coverage of the Ashes is set to leave Australia with immediate effect.
Despite Brendon McCullum’s England coming into the 2025/26 Ashes series with the hope of securing a first away series victory in Australia since 2010-11, unfortunately, the side have been dealt a harsh reality check against the hosts, who head into Boxing Day’s Melbourne Test 3-0 up, having already retained the urn.
Some have suggested that McCullum, who became England’s Test cricket head coach in May 2022, should step down due to the team’s poor performance.
However, he has insisted on remaining in charge. The New Zealander signed a central contract through to 2027 in November.
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When asked if he expects to be in charge of England next summer, when the side face New Zealand and Pakistan at home, McCullum told the media that he doesn’t know but promised to “learn the lessons” and “make some adjustments” to the side should he remain in charge.
England now face two further Tests against Australia - in Melbourne and Sydney - before several members of the squad take part in a one-day series in Sri Lanka at the end of January.
But one man who is leaving Australia sooner rather than later is former-England-bowler-turned-pundit Steven Finn.
Finn, who was involved in three Ashes series wins despite playing just seven tests against Australia, had been working for TNT Sports alongside former teammates Sir Alistair Cook and Graeme Swann but will now return home.
In an X post on Monday (December 22), he wrote: “So, my time in Australia is done. Always love visiting and being able to sit behind the bowler’s arm and watch. It’s the best view in the house. Have really enjoyed being part of the coverage for the Ashes on @tntsports, even if the results haven’t been the way we wanted. Until next time, Australia.”
Several colleagues offered Finn their best wishes, with former England wicketkeeper Matt Prior commenting: “Was a pleasure working with you @finnysteve… seriously need to work on your overseas win rate as a commentator though!! (laughing emoji) Travel safe."
Fans also praised the former fast bowler's expert insight throughout the series.