UNLIKE the Mewies Solicitors Craven League, who have opted for 35 overs per side, the Dales Council League are going for 40 overs per innings.

Both leagues start their season on Saturday, and Dales Council League secretary Ron Mackenzie explained: "We had some practice matches last Saturday and the hygiene breaks were pretty quick, so we have decided to go for 40 overs.

"However, if there are any issues with that this weekend, we reserve the right to go down to 35 overs per side the following weekend."

A total of 28 Dales Council League clubs will take part, with 10 teams in Division A and Division B and eight teams in Division C.

The top two divisions will finish their campaigns on September 12, with Division C ending on August 29.

Four teams have opted not to take part - Leeds Sikh A and B, Crompark (many of their players live in multi-generational households) and Muff Field B - while Drighlington B have been demoted from Division B to Division C to equalise the teams.

Pudsey Congs and Baildon B will both play on their main grounds this weekend, but Savile Stars have been told by Kirklees Metropolitan Council that they cannot play any matches at home - the same issue that affects Upper Hopton and Mount in the Halifax League.

The Dales Council League, like many leagues, have also decided that there will be no promotion or relegation this season or any cup competitions.

Dales Council League - Division A: Bradford Moor, Cookridge, Drighlington, Leeds Caribbean, Halifax Direct, One Stop, Pudsey St Lawrence C, Savile Stars, Thornbury, Woodhouse.

Division B: Adel, Baildon C, Cookridge B, Interlink, Mayfield, Muff Field, Pudsey Congs C, Shipley Providence, Thornbury B, Tong Park Esholt C.

Division C: Baildon D, Cookridge C, Drighlington B, Mayfield B, Morley C, Rodley C, St Chads Broomfield D, St Chads Broomfield E.