Finlinson’s test debut was against Wales at Swansea on 5 January 1895. He played two further internationals that season against Scotland and Ireland.[1] He played his club rugby for Blackheath FC (76 matches 1892-98), and Bedford RUFC (38 matches 1891-1906). He also played for the Barbarians FC.[4] He later became a schoolmaster at Lancing College.[5] On his retirement he returned to Bedford and served as the club's President from 1933-1945.[6]
Aside from rugby, Finlinson's main hobby was natural history and he was for many years associated with the Ornithologists' Union and the Zoological Society.[7] Finlinson died in Bedford on 31 October 1956.[2]