The race for promotion from Division Two of the Aire-Wharfe League took a dramatic twist when former leaders Knaresborough were deducted 24 points for a violation of an English Cricket Board rule.

The league found Knaresborough had used 18-year-old Australian Dale Tormey to bowl too many overs in five league matches. Three of the matches were wins against Calverley, Colton and Tong Park, one was a 5-1 winning draw against Harden and the other was 4-2 winning draw against Follifoot.

Aire-Wharfe League secretary Howard Clayton said: “It was unfortunate but they were in violation of an ECB bowling restriction and the results have now been reversed.”

Although Keighley area teams Silsden and Steeton were not involved in any of the affected matches, the decision has had massive impact on their season. Before the decision Knares-borough were leaders and in pole position to win the division going into their final game at Silsden this Saturday.

However, now Silsden have been confirmed as champions and Steeton have moved up to second with 67 points. Calverley have jumped up to third place and Follifoot are fourth.

Steeton host Follifoot this Saturday, needing two points from a losing draw to wrap up promotion.

Steeton secretary Michael Wilson said of Knaresborough: “It’s unfortunate for them but they broke the rules. They’ve made a mistake and it’s cost them dear.”

Silsden chairman Tim Sugden was happy with the club’s first championship since the league was reformed in 1936, saying: “We’ve finished runners-up a few times but never actually won it. It’s something new for us and is a great achievement.”