Veteran bowler Dominic Cork has given Lancashire a sniff of County Championship victory against highflyers Nottinghamshire on today's final day at Old Trafford.

The 36year-old former England man was the pivotal figure on an encouraging third day for the Red Rose county yesterday.

He claimed 3-60 from 20.3 overs to bowl the Trent Bridge side out for 304 in reply to the home side's first innings 384.

Paul Horton then hit a solid 60 to help Lancs close on 146-4, leading by 226 runs with six second innings wickets remaining.

Cork has been in and out of Lancashire's side due to an intercostal strain that has bothered him since the pre-season tour of the United Arab Emirates in March.

But he helped save this game from a tame last day by reducing the visitors from 211-2, sending Australian all-rounder Adam Voges (55) to hospital after being hit on the wrist - and dismissing Chris Read, Graeme Swann and Charlie Shreck for ducks.

Mark Wagh top scored with 94 for the visitors, while Steven Croft, Oliver Newby and Gary Keedy all picked up a couple of wickets. Sajid Mahmood also got one.

Cork, who later admitted that he is not planning to retire at the end of the season to pursue a career in the media, said: "All the guys bought into the idea that we had to make something happen, and we've worked hard to get into a positive position in the match."