ED Ellis helped keep Dorset in a dominant position going into the final day of their Minor Counties Championship clash against Cornwall at North Perrott today.

The Lymington batsman made 76 from just 83 deliveries batting at number five to propel his side into a commanding lead of 192 after their first innings.

Ellis top scored for the home side as, having bowled Cornwall out for 146 on day one, Dorset posted 338 for nine from their allotted 90 overs.

The hosts were also aided by useful contributions from Alex Eckland (39), Josh Digby (28) and skipper Chris Park (21) on the second day’s play.

Adam Hodgson, who eventually trapped Ellis leg before, was the pick of the Cornwall attack with 3-54 from 19 overs.

Following their impressive batting display, the home team also made big inroads with the ball as seamer James Hayman took two quick-fire wickets to leave Cornwall reeling on 25 for 2.

Off-spinner Jigar Naik, who had been awarded his county cap by Dorset, then dismissed Alex Bone (19) and Nick Lawson (4).

Eckland also played his part with the ball, picking up the wicket of Andrew Libby (0) to leave Cornwall 80 for five at the close, trailing Dorset by 112.