Gilchrist backs Finn for Ashes

Adam Gilchrist believes Steven Finn has all the attributes to become a big success in this winter's Ashes.

Finn has been hailed as an England's next bowling sensation following his first home Test against Bangladesh at Lord's last week where he ended with match figures of nine for 187.

"I think the Aussies will be keeping an eye on him this summer because he will be suited to Australian conditions," said Gilchrist.

With Stuart Broad being rested, and Tim Bresnan out through injury, 21-year-old Finn has a good chance of being handed the new ball by captain Andrew Strauss when play begins in the second Test at Old Trafford on Friday.

His pace, height and bounce have led critics to compare Finn with former England seamer Steve Harmison and even Australian legend Glenn McGrath.

Gilchrist, who will play alongside Finn in this summer's Friends Provident T20 for Middlesex, has been impressed with his new team-mate's progress at Test level, and admits he has the potential to play a pivotal role in England's defence of the Ashes this winter.

"I've only exchanged texts with him, I've not met him in person so I don't know how tall he is but from watching him on TV, anyone coming from that height and with the stature he has will benefit in Australian conditions," said Gilchrist.

"In a couple of grounds especially where there is a lot of bounce it will be a nice benefit for England to have.

"I saw him play in Bangladesh on TV when I was in India. It's a hard slog for everyone out there but the way he came out here at Lord's and got nine wickets was no surprise with the style he bowls. He runs in and doesn't try to do anything spectacular and often gets spectacular results. Glenn McGrath proved that's possible.

"There's a lot to happen between now and the Ashes and I hope for his sake he will be fit and in the team because if he is it will make it a bigger spectacle and a better event."