After a torrid 2002, there was strong evidence last weekend that Gavin Hamilton is on the way back.

The Yorkshire and Scotland all-rounder suffered the bowling 'yips' last season, but took three for six off five overs on Saturday in East Bierley's seven-wicket victory over Idle in the SDS Bradford League First Division.

"He looked tremendous," said Bierley's cricket secretary Ben Hemming. "I am sure that before long he will be back in Yorkshire's first team."

Hamilton's problems started over a year ago in Yorkshire's pre-season friendly against Bradford-Leeds UCCE.

He delivered an over that contained so many wides and no balls it really affected his confidence.

Hamilton then took a break to re-gather himself and reappeared in the championship match against Surrey at Headingley, where Yorkshire were thrashed, with the all-rounder performing averagely in a distinctly below-par team display.

His bowling problems then resurfaced against Sussex at Headingley in another four-dayer in June, and he didn't figure for the county again, even playing for East Bierley as a batsman only.

However, a winter in South Africa with county team-mate Michael Lumb could well have done the trick, and he has returned much improved after coaching from Michael's father Richard, the former Yorkshire opening bat.

Hamilton also played last Sunday when Bierley defeated holders Pudsey Congs away in the first round of the Priestley Cup.

And a delighted Hemming said: "It was a great performance, for to win there is no mean feat.

"Kazaif Raza (8.2-5-6-4) and Rob Burton (8-2-17-3) were tremendous, and Paul Hemming too, even though he conceded 52 runs in nine overs. He took three major wickets - Andy Bethel, Barbar Butt and Matthew Doidge."

"We are top of the league and are through to the second round of the Priestley Cup, and a lot of that is down to skipper Rob Burton. He has developed a really good team spirit and there are no superstars - even though Gavin is in the team."

Tomorrow Bierley are at home to Hanging Heaton as their interesting season continues. The other top match is baildon at home to Pudsey St Lawrence.