The number eleven who nearly broke a century record
In short: In 2013, a 19-year-old Australian cricketer stood on the brink of history. Batting at the very bottom of the order, he was just one swing away from becoming the first number eleven to score a Test century. Instead, a single catch left him with a legendary, heartbreaking 98.
Ashton Agar's rise to the Australian national team was marked by rapid development. After debuting for Western Australia in 2013, he was quickly integrated into the national setup. During the 2012–13 Ashes series, he was selected as a development player for a tour of India. His performances earned him a spot in the primary Ashes squad following the appointment of coach Darren Lehmann, leading to his Test debut at Trent Bridge in Nottingham.
During that first Test, Agar produced one of the most remarkable lower-order batting displays in the history of the game. Coming in at number eleven with Australia at 9/117, he scored 98 runs from 101 balls. This innings broke several records, including the highest score by a number eleven batsman. He was only one pull shot away from a century—a feat never before achieved by a player in that position—before being caught by England's Graeme Swann.
While his batting grabbed headlines, Agar's career has been defined by his versatility as a left-arm orthodox spinner and a reliable lower-order batsman. He has played all forms of the game at the international level, including a pivotal role in Australia's 2021 T20 World Cup victory. Despite facing challenges like hip pain during the 2013 Ashes and various injuries to teammates, Agar has remained a staple of the Perth Scorchers for 12 years, recently signing a three-year extension in January 2025.
His career trajectory highlights the nuances of modern cricket selection. He has oscillated between being a specialist spin option and a vital all-rounder, notably being called into the Test side in 2022 to provide depth following Cameron Green's injury. His journey from a 15-year-old debut in Victorian Premier Cricket to a central contract holder reflects a steady evolution of skill and resilience.
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