The Oval 2018 was one of the most extraordinary Tests I've been involved with.

The first time Stuart Broad walked into the dressing room, with his flowing blond hair, striking blue eyes and perfect figure, I thought: 'My God, she's beautiful.'

It is easy for people to say 'Go and express yourselves' but you need the players, talent, confidence and environment to do it.

Ben Stokes, for example, is someone who plays better when he is a bit aggressive - and that's something you don't want to take away from him.

I'm a very competitive person and maybe I'd taken things a bit too far at times.

I'm proud to have represented England in four World Cups but it was hugely frustrating that we never reached a semi-final or played to our ability.

Having two bowlers who can exceed 90 mph is a mouth-watering prospect - and something batsmen will not relish one bit.

A lot of teams see Lord's as a special place and up their games to try to get their names on the honours' board.

Even at the age of 36, I'm always looking at ways to improve.

At that speed, batsmen are almost trying to premeditate where the ball will be - they feel like they don't have time to react or move. That's the difference between bowling in the mid-80s and the mid-90s.

Trent Bridge, 2013, is my favourite Test. An Ashes opener and England won a thriller by 14 runs. I managed to take ten wickets, which helps.

I didn't watch a Test match live until I played in my first in 2003.

Cricket often leaves you scratching your head.

If you can dismiss the best in the world, it means you're doing something right and have the quality needed to perform at the highest level.

It's great when you can challenge yourself against the top players in tense situations. I've always enjoyed it.

Kohli is always fired up, very animated on the field and plays with passion.

Andrew Strauss captained me through my purple patch.

Alastair Cook is one of my best pals.

Nasser Hussain was skipper when I first played for England and a massive influence. He showed me a lot of faith.

I managed just five Tests between 2004 and 2006.

I don't agree with the theory that removing grass and pace from the pitch nullifies Mitchell Johnson.

There is something special about the early stages of an Ashes Test. There is this unique buzz.

It is scary when bowling how hard batsmen hit it now.

I'm always trying to improve whether by being more consistent, accurate, fitter or able to bowl longer spells.