CUMBERLAND's grip on their Minor Counties Championship match with Suffolk eased slightly as Suffolk did not lose any more wickets in Tuesday's play up to mid-day.

Cumberland had held the upper hand on Monday, piling up 324 against an attack which included ex-England Test bowler Devon Malcolm. D. Barnes made 135 and A. Metcalfe 66, while Malcom took 4-89 and P. King 4-74.

Suffolk were then reduced to 62-4 overnight.

Another fine dry day saw the visitors recover to 139-4 after 42 overs.