THE Ribblesdale League could be set to undergo a major revamp if proposals to go before the league's AGM at the end of the month get the green light.

Under the current structure, the Senior League comprises of 14 teams with the same number of teams in divisions one and two but, there is no relegation or promotion.

Promotion to the Senior League was only possible when the league expanded as teams finishing in the bottom two would usually be re-elected by the other Senior League clubs.

But, should the new proposals be approved, at the start of the 2009 season, there would be two divisions comprising of first eleven teams, with promotion and relegation between the two.

The first division would be made up of the top 12 teams from the Senior League at the end of the 2008 season and these teams must engage a professional.

Teams in the second division, which would be made up of the bottom two teams in the Senior League plus the seven other first teams currently playing in the league, will be allowed to employ the services of a professional or an overseas amateur if they so wish.

The second division will also comprise of three new teams and applications for these places will be sought if the proposals are approved.

Also, as part of the new structure, there will be two divisions of second eleven clubs, and third-string sides could be split into either one or two divisions depending on the number of clubs.

A similar proposal went before the league last season but was only narrowly defeated.

But Brian Hopwood, chairman of Feniscowles Cricket Club, has re-submitted a revised proposal and reckons change is vital for the future health of the league.

He said: "I was involved with the Chorley and District League for 30 years and saw it die because they refused to change.

"Cricket is under threat and unless we safeguard the long-term future of the league then more leagues could go the way of the Chorley League.

"The two division system has made a hell of a difference to the County Championship because there are less dead games.

"Teams winning promotion might not be able to survive in the top league but it would be nice to have the option."

Jason Rawson, captain of Salesbury Cricket Club, said he welcomed the changes after seeing many attempts to break into the Senior League fail.

He said: "When we joined the Ribblesdale League, we always said that to move the club forward we would want to play in the Senior League.

"If these proposals get the go ahead, then it will be like a breath of fresh air .

"I think the league has become a little bit stagnant in its current format and the idea of adding new teams to the list will create a new interest.

"Also, it will create far more competitive cricket and therefore a more competitive league and we hope that the proposal is passed."

Also on the table is a proposal to allow all Ribblesdale League players to be paid, if their clubs so wish, and an amendment to rules regarding overseas amateurs.

The league's AGM takes place on Monday, November 26 at Read CC.

PROPOSALS

  • Now...There are 14 teams in the Senior League, Division One and Division Two. There is no relegation or promotion to/from from the Senior League.
  • In 2009? A First and Second Division of 12 first XI teams with promotion and relegation in a "two up, two down system." Clubs in Division One would have to have a professional while clubs in Division Two could hire a pro or overseas amateur.