Finch returned Ten-nil (6)

I believe the answer is:

linnet

'finch' is the definition.
(I know that linnet is a type of finch)

'returned ten-nil' is the wordplay.
'returned' says the letters should be written in reverse.
'ten'+'nil'='tennil'
'tennil' written backwards gives 'LINNET'.

(Other definitions for linnet that I've seen before include "House finch" , "A British finch" , "Passerine bird" , "North London terminus" , "Songbird in Lent" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.