Liam Blackford scores sensational century for Australia in tight run chase

Geelong rising star Liam Blackford played the innings of his life for Australia in a tough chase against England. But he was left heartbroken by how it ended.

Liam Blackford’s brilliant century for Australia has ended in heartache.

Geelong young gun Liam Blackford has had the innings of his life cruelly ended after almost dragging Australia to a sensational victory in an under-19 clash against England.

The left-hander peeled off a sensational 106 in trying conditions, holding the innings together when Australia fell to 5-143 when chasing 310 to win on the final day of a four-day contest at Allan Border Field.

Blackford’s 136-ball stay included 12 fours and two sixes as he shrewdly batted with the tail.

He was aided by No.10 Josh Vernon (12 of 79 balls) in a partnership of 70 for the ninth wicket.

Liam Blackford appeals while playing for Geelong. Picture: Mike Dugdale

But Blackford fell when just 33 runs short of the target as he tried to drive a full ball off Englishman Dominic Kelly and was caught at slip.

The keeper-batter appeared to think the stroke as a bump-ball and stood his ground at the crease but was sent walking by the umpire.

Following Blackford’s departure, the final pair of Vernon and Harkirat Bajwa (one not out) put on eight runs before Vernon was run out, with Australia falling 25 runs short of a memorable win.

Blackford’s spectacular innings came after he made 10 in the first dig.

The talented teen, who has impressed for Victoria in Second XI cricket this summer, said before the match he was keen to “see how we compare” against Englishmen of the same age.

The two nations begin another four-day contest on Monday.

Originally published as Liam Blackford scores sensational century for Australia in tight run chase