Steven Finn accepts senior player role and has open door policy for Middlesex youngsters

Steven Finn has admitted that he now considers himself as a senior player at Middlesex.

The 26-year-old pace bowler, who was called up for England's one day international in Ireland on May 8, has found himself as one of his county side's most experienced players with the squad.

Just over five years ago people were asking who Steven Finn was as he made his Test debut against Bangladesh as a fresh faced 20-year-old.

But, having been in and around the first team for a decade, the paceman now considers himself a senior player.

He said: “I've always seen myself as a youngster as I've been one of the youngest but it's the first time I'm looking at myself in this team as a senior player and someone who has played a lot for the club and knows what the club expects of us.

“We've got a few guys in that same position. I'm not sure when I became one but I feel more responsibility on me to help those guys as I could be around for a lot of the season.”

Finn is enjoying that role and is happy mentoring youngsters Tom Helm, Gurjit Sandhu, Harry Podmore and other young players finding their feet in the game.

He added: “I see a lot of myself in those young guys. I was lucky that there were injuries and it allowed me to play early in my career.

“These guys are having to earn their place and that'll be beneficial for them. Anything I can do that'll make them better then I'll try and do it.

“We'll chat while we're bowling. It's very much they always know I'm there. The door is always open I suppose.”

Finn believes Middlesex will see the young trio of bowlers thrive for the county, and possibly the country.

He added: “I wouldn't be surprised if Tom Helm plays for England. He's tall, quick and swings the ball and they're attributes every fast bowler wants to have.

“Harry and Gurjit have played more one-day cricket but it's another year for them to keep building and get more first team chances as the season goes on.

“James Harris didn't play too much last season but this year I've seen him bowl and he's been brilliant. I wouldn't be surprised if he has a big year.”