Borthwick happy to bow out with win
All-rounder Scott Borthwick enjoyed his final day in a Durham shirt – hitting 88 in helping relegate Hampshire from the Specsavers County Championship’s First Division.
The Sunderland-born star is moving to Surrey for next season, along with Durham opener Mark Stoneman, who posted a brilliant century to inspire yesterday’s six-wicket triumph.
“I knew this morning that the day would be emotional if we win and sing the team song,” admitted Borthwick.
“I thought the innings need a big partnership and it was nice it was me and Stoneman.
“It was nice to get in and end my career with Durham with a nice little score.
“We knew it would be a challenge to chase anything above 250 and it was nice to have the partnership to win.
“We knew Hampshire had to win the game, so they had to try and create the atmosphere and cricket out there.
“We knew if we batted time then they would naturally get frustrated.”
On his departure, Borthwick reiterated his hunger for a fresh challenge at The Oval, saying: “No regrets, I am sad because I am leaving the club I played for since I was 10, but it is a new challenge I am excited for.”
Hampshire director of cricket Giles White rued his side’s relegation.
He admitted: “We were quite optimistic, and with a bit of luck we could have got over the line.
“We have to give credit to the two batsmen, Stoneman and Borthwick – they didn’t give us much luck, and in the end they did it at a canter.
“We didn’t take the early wickets. If we had done that in the chase they would have been under pressure. They would have had to expand themselves but they played with skill.
“The dressing room is disappointed, deflated. It is very tough on the players.”