DORSET conceded an enormous 458-run deficit to Devon on the second day’s play of their Unicorns Championship battle at Sidmouth, writes NEIL WALTON.

Resuming on 52 for one, Dorset were bowled out for 186, still 240 runs adrift, before half centuries from first-innings centurions Alex Barrow and captain Josh Bess eased the hosts to 218 for five at the close.

Earlier, Dorset lost Josh Digby (16) to Bashley paceman Dan Goodey (2-43), who also had Alex Eckland (8) caught. Luke Webb (30) lasted slightly longer, becoming the sole victim of Bess (1-30).

Ed Ellis (17), Jigar Naik (32) and Ed Bartlett (14) all got starts but could not kick on as Ben Green (4-34) mopped up the tail to leave skipper Chris Park (11*) stranded as the visitors were dismissed for under 200.

Choosing not to enforce the follow-on, Devon took their second innings but saw Josh Mailling (2) perish to the impressive Bartlett (1-16) for the second successive time.

After a 45-minute rain delay, Green (27) and George Allen (31) added quick runs but their efforts were again eclipsed by Barrow (66) and Bess (70) who shared a 129-run stand.

However, Naik (3-73) fought back, accounting for both men as Park’s men aim to salvage a draw on day three.