Hobart: Opening batsman Scott Mason hit his maiden first-class century as Tasmania worked itself into a strong position on Thursday in a Sheffield Shield game against Victoria at Bellerive Oval. Mason, a 26-year-old left-hander, hit an unbeaten 168 -- almost trebling his previous best score of 61. Tasmania finished the second day of a four-day match with 268 for three in its second innings, an overall lead of 214 runs, as it frustrated Victoria's drive for its first outright victory in Hobart for 17 years. Mason made his debut for Tasmania five seasons ago, but has been unable to establish a permanent position. He was out first ball in the first innings. Mason said it felt fantastic to "get the monkey off my back". His six-hour knock has produced 24 fours and a six. The Tasmanian batsmen dominated after Victoria was dismissed for 174, a first innings lead of 54.

Tags: cricket, scott mason, first-class century, tasmania, sheffield shield, bellerive oval, victoria, hobart, debut, innings.