SKIPPER Tom Hicks's heroics with the ball were not quite enough as Cornwall clung on for a draw on the final day at Dean Park.

Hicks ripped through the Cornish batting line-up, taking 6-60 as the visitors chased 246 for victory.

Their bold attempt stuttered and after the eighth wicket fell, they shut up shop and saw out the last five overs to secure the draw.

It left manager Sean Walbridge still without a win but he was delighted with his team's efforts.

He said: "I felt we deserved to win and I think Cornwall will admit that too.

"It was an excellent game of cricket but we are a bit disappointed we could not get those last two wickets.

"Tom bowled superbly and led the team well and had a great afternoon.

"At 152-5 early on we could have been bowled out cheaply but we showed great grit and determination."

Walbridge also singled out teenagers Dan Belt and Paul Tweddle for special praise.

He said: "I am over the moon about the two young lads.

"Both contributed with the bat and I am really pleased they performed so well in this match."

Despite losing Metcalfe in the second over, Dorset's tail wagged to set Cornwall a competitive target.

Tim Lamb, 34 not out overnight, went on to complete his second century of the game before he became one of Chris Hunkin's two late victims.

But youngsters Tweddle (29) and Belt (17) showed great maturity and application to add valuable runs for the last two wickets and push Dorset up to 248 all out.

Chasing 246 for victory, the visitors lost James Hands early before Gary Thomas and Tom Sharp took the score on to 60-1.

Hicks then began his procession through the Cornish line-up as wickets tumbled at regular intervals.

Ben Price provided some firm resistance in the middle order with a gritty 43 before he became another Hicks victim.

And once Alex Tunnadine was stumped by Tweddle off Hicks, it was left to Hunkin and Karl Turner to rescue the draw for Cornwall.