KEN DOHERTY yesterday avoided the epidemic of shocks sweeping through the Asian Classic in Bangkok - but only after producing a miraculous fightback.

The Dubliner appeared destined to join Stephen Hendry, Jimmy White, John Higgins and John Parrott on the list of surprise casualties when he trailed world number 81 Stefan Mazrocis 4-1.

Having just arrived at the point of no return, Doherty suddenly began to fire on all cylinders to secure a 5-4 victory.

Mazrocis established a commanding 4-1 lead, but in the closing frames Doherty roared back with runs of 43, 58, 73, 47 and 42.