BOLTON batsman Haseeb Hameed needs just nine more runs to claim a century for England Under-19s in a one-off Test against Australia in Perth.

The former Farnworth Social Circle player helped rescue the tourists from almost certain defeat following a sterling display on the third day of the four-day match.

Australia ended the first innings with a 283-run lead after bowling England out for 172 before declaring on 455-7.

England started day three on 38-0, in real danger of suffering an innings defeat, but closed it on 342-5 after 18-year-old Hameed survived a gruelling five-and-a-half hours at the crease.

Andy Hurry, head of the England Development Programme, was full of praise for the Lancashire batsman.

“Hameed showed incredible inner drive, batting for five-and-a-half hours, building valuable partnerships,” he said.

“Whatever the outcome of this game, the team has shown real resilience and character.”

Hameed will resume batting on the final day at the WACA on 91, with England 59 runs in front.

The former Bolton School pupil is one of three Bolton-based cricketers on the tour, which will see England’s youngsters take on the Aussies in four one-day games following the Test.

Saqib Mahmood claimed two wickets in Australia’s first innings, while off-spinner Matthew Parkinson was not picked for the Test side but is expected to play in the limited overs games.