Long throw striking opener (4)

I believe the answer is:

itch

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'long' is the definition.
(to long or itch for something is to desire it)

I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for itch that I've seen before include "Seven-yearly desire" , "Hankering" , "Craving" , "minor irritant" , "Something that needs a scratch" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.

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