Finn, Root extend support for under-fire England coach Flower

England players Steven Finn and Joe Root have offered their support for under-fire coach Andy Flower following the Ashes humiliation suffered by the team at the hands of Australia in the winter series.

Although England had won three successive Ashes series under Flower, who also guided the team to victory in the ICC World Twenty20 competition in 2010 and led them to the top of the Test rankings a year later, but former England captain Geoffrey Boycott said the coach must decide on his future quickly so the side can plan ahead.

However, the BBC reports that Finn said that it would be 'a great loss' if Flower left his position as England coach, adding that he has been fantastic for the group and is always working hard to make sure that they are prepared as they can possibly be for Test matches.

Finn's teammate Root also offered his support for Flower, saying that Flower has done a fantastic thing for English cricket over his career, adding that he has been very good for his (Root's) development as a player.

Root also said the team should not look further ahead than the fourth Test in Melbourne, starting on Boxing Day.