A second Minor Counties Championship century for Whitchurch’s Richard Oliver propelled Shropshire to maximum batting bonus points – and a big first innings total against Cornwall at St Austell.

Oliver made 120 in Shropshire’s 355-9 from their maximum 90 overs on an enthralling first day of the western division clash yesterday.

At one stage, such a tally looked unlikely as the visitors struggled to 143-5 after winning the toss.

But Oliver continued his rich vein of form by reaching three figures for Shropshire for the second time, having achieved the feat against Cheshire in 2009.

Only a fortnight ago, the 21-year-old shared in a record sixth wicket Shropshire stand with Anthony Parker – Oliver made 80 – while he has also produced some eye-catching displays for Whitchurch.

“It was an excellent innings from Richard and very important in the context of the game,” said captain Ed Foster.

“He has responded well to being left out of the (one-day) team at the start of the season and has taken his chance when it has come along – which is what we want players to do.”

Oliver received fine support from Andy Gray who made 45 in a seventh wicket stand of 94.

While Shropshire lost captain Ed Foster and professional Chris Murtagh for five and 16 respectively – both to seamer Alex Smeeth – an excellent 57 from opener Jono Whitney helped Shropshire recover to 108-2.

The middle order then fell away slightly before Oliver restored Shropshire’s control with a 160-ball innings which included 18 fours and one six.

Smeeth ended with 5-105 for Cornwall while captain Tom Sharp took three wickets with his off spin on a pitch already offering some turn.

Shropshire made two relatively early breakthroughs with Mark Downes trapping Matthew Rowe leg before for seven while Andy Gray accounted for Dan Davis in similar fashion for 16.

But the visitors couldn’t muster another wicket in the closing 16 overs as Cornwall ended on 109-2 with opener Matt Robins unbeaten on 59.

By JAMES GARRISON