Harry Finch exhibited remarkable resilience to guide Kent Spitfires to a four-wicket victory over Hampshire in their Metro Bank One-Day Cup match at Beckenham on Wednesday.
Chasing a target of 169, Kent faced a tough challenge, falling to 96-6 before Finch and Charlie Stobo (32 not out) combined for an unbeaten 74-run partnership to secure the win. Finch’s patient innings included an unbeaten 53 off 94 balls, proving crucial in their successful chase.
Hampshire, who were bowled out for 168 in 41 overs, had been bolstered by a solid performance from South African all-rounder Beyers Swanepoel, who took 3-28 and contributed 30 runs with the bat. Kyle Abbott added valuable runs lower down the order, scoring 37, which helped set a defendable total. Abbott’s effective bowling, which included 10 overs for just 16 runs and three wickets, put Kent under pressure.
Despite Abbott’s efforts, Finch’s steady innings and Stobo’s support ensured that Kent reached their target. Spitfires’ coach Mark Dekker praised the team’s performance, especially given the challenging conditions and a pitch that didn’t favor high scores.
Dekker highlighted Finch’s ability to remain calm and controlled under pressure, noting his significant contribution to the team’s success. He also praised Swanepoel’s role in both batting and bowling, emphasizing the team’s adaptability and resilience.
Kent’s chase began with setbacks, as O’Riordan and Evison fell early. However, Finch and Stobo’s partnership brought stability and eventually led Kent to victory with 9.3 overs to spare. The win marks Kent’s second consecutive victory, with their next match scheduled against Middlesex at Beckenham on Sunday.
