Harry Finch expressed his delight at the opportunity to bat higher in the order for Kent Spitfires.
The 29-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman scored his first List A century for Kent, forming a 183-run partnership with Spitfires’ Metro Bank One-Day Cup captain Jack Leaning against Durham at Canterbury. Finch’s impressive knock of 104 off 91 balls was the highlight of Sunday’s match.
However, despite Finch’s efforts, Kent’s hopes of advancing to the knockout stages of the 50-over competition were dashed as they slipped from 223-3 to 294-9, ultimately losing by seven runs.
Reflecting on his promotion to the No.4 spot, Finch said, “It was a change in position for me on Sunday, but I prefer batting in the top four, so I was eager to seize the opportunity, and fortunately, I did.”
Despite his personal success, Finch couldn’t hide his disappointment at the outcome. “It’s frustrating because we were in a winning position, but credit to Durham. They adapted well and brought on the spinners, which made it tough for us.”
Finch’s innings included 13 boundaries and a six, the latter coming in style as he reached his century with a powerful hit off Scott Borthwick. However, Finch emphasized that his focus was on the team’s score rather than personal milestones.
“I think I play my best when I’m more focused on the team’s total than my own score,” he explained. “That six was just the right option at the time.”
While pleased with his performance, Finch acknowledged the team’s shortcomings. “We need to improve as a group. We haven’t batted well enough throughout the competition, and we have to be honest about that. On Sunday, we had the game set up but didn’t finish well.”
Kent will conclude their 50-over Group A campaign against Northamptonshire at Canterbury on Wednesday, with their hopes of progressing already ended.
