ANOTHER bright young Victorian prospect has burst onto the scene, with batsman Ashley Chandrasinghe delivering a terrific debut in the Sheffield Shield over the weekend.

The left-hander was outstanding at the crease, compiling a maiden ton the old fashioned way, outlasting Tasmania’s relentless bowling attack at Bellerive Oval.

It was a crucial performance in the context of his side’s innings, steering Victoria to a defendable total of 7/351, which they declared on.

Chandrasinghe remained unbeaten, showcasing a serious level of composure and class as he fended off every delivery Tassie threw his way to put his side in a winning position.

He came in to replace Will Pucovski, who has stepped away from the game for the time being, giving Chandrasinghe an opportunity to make his debut, and it was certainly one to remember.

Ashley Chandrasinghe vs. Tasmania Tigers – 119* (333)

The 20-year-old was calm during his first innings in the Sheffield Shield, understanding the talent of the opposition and not trying to get too fancy with any of his shot selection. Tasmania’s pace attack boasts some serious challenges, and Chandrasinghe was able to hold onto his wicket.

Day one was an extremely conservative performance, as he produced just one run from his first 49 balls faced. He combined with skipper Peter Handscomb for a 157-run partnership, before the latter was dismissed five runs shy of his own ton.

Despite Tasmania claiming some crucial wickets, Chandrasinghe was immovable, defending as if his life depended on it, while also taking any shot the opposition would give him. He brought up his century on day two with a classic straight drive down the ground.

It was the slowest century since Jordan Silk’s 341-ball ton in 2013, and showcased the youngster’s temperament despite being just 20 years of age. It was a textbook first class knock, and saved Victoria’s innings after a number of key hitters departed in cheap fashion, with Handscomb his only other teammate to make it past 35.

While it may not have been the flashiest of performances, Chandrasinghe put himself on the national map with an undeniably crucial knock, keeping Victoria’s innings going as long as possible with his composure. With his entire career ahead of him, national selectors will be keeping an eye on the youngster in the coming weeks after his showing against the Tasmania Tigers.