Bolton-batsman Josh Bohannon outlined his England ambitions as he scored a brilliant 170 to steer Lancashire towards a share of the points against Warwickshire.

The 24-year-old batted from the start of play until just before 5pm in compiling his second century of what is becoming a memorable 2021 for the Boltonian whose season average now stands at 66.27.

Bohannon’s efforts saw the Red Rose bowled out for 341 after resuming day three on 100 for one, meaning they trailed the visitors by just 30 runs with Warwickshire grateful for Liam Norwell’s six for 57 as they faced a tricky period of 19 overs before closing on 52 for one with a lead of 82 runs.

The day had begun well for Warwickshire when Luke Wells was brilliantly bowled by Norwell for 45, ending a second wicket partnership of 109 with Bohannon.

Wells’ wicket brought skipper Dane Vilas to the crease and the South African proved a perfect foil for Bohannon, hitting five fours and a six on his way to a breezy 67 before he was caught at second slip by Rob Yates off Norwell.

A flurry of wickets followed, including England limited overs star Liam Livingston bowled without playing a shot, with Tom Bailey, Saqib Mahmood and fellow Boltonian Matt Parkinson doing their best to support Bohannon.

The former Harper Green student was just four short of his highest first class score when he charged down the wicket to spinner Briggs and was stumped.

A fired up Mahmood continued his fine form from the first innings in clean bowling Yates for one before Dom Sibley and Chris Benjamin settled any nerves as the clock ticked down in Warwickshire’s reply

Bohannon, who played his club cricket with Farnworth Social Circle, said at the end of play that he hopes the good form can continue, with dreams of an England call up

"It was a great day and very enjoyable,” he said.

"We would have liked one or two more wickets tonight but there is no reason why we can't get five or six wickets in a session. Everyone is in good spirits and we're looking forward to tomorrow.

"It is always enjoyable when you kick on and get a score but the most pleasing thing was how much hard work I've put into getting that sort of knock in the last few weeks.

"It was disappointing not to carry on and get the team at least to Warwickshire's score if not past them but it was still very enjoyable.

"I would still like more hundreds and I think I've got a lot more to come. There have been times when I've got in and given it away but I feel like I've matured as a player this season. I'm in a great place personally and it's nice when you get in, make one count and go big.

"We always talk about not just getting a hundred but making it a big one and that is what I pride myself on - the hard work starts after you get the hundred and the only way you are going to get noticed is by making big scores.

"I'd be lying if I said I didn't want to play for England - it's a massive ambition of mine but it's not something I'm thinking about or worrying about. I'm just in a great place and I'm enjoying cricket so hopefully the results carry on and the cricket will do its thing.

"I've started to enjoy cricket a lot more than when I first started to play - when you first start there is a lot of self doubt involved and you have to do it a little bit to realise you're good enough to belong in the team.

"I certainly feel I've become a better player and a more consistent player in the team.

“This is as good as I've felt personally on and off the field - the mental stuff is what is getting me the success at the moment."