It has been a tough start for Division One bottom club Yeadon following their surprise JCT600 Bradford League promotion – but nothing that captain James Todd didn’t expect.

Yeadon, who finished third in Division Two last season, were the extra team promoted when the clubs decided to expel Manningham Mills from the league.

“It was an unexpected promotion, but one we were ready to take on,” said Todd, speaking after his side’s match at East Bierley had been abandoned because of rain yesterday.

“We were late finding out, which doesn’t help – it puts your preparation back – but we are still confident of our prospects in Division One, even if it’s been a tough start.”

Yeadon, without a win in their six matches, have 23 points, 13 behind third from the bottom Bierley, and Todd said: “I was looking forward to playing Bierley, but weather put a stop to that.”

Now, he is preparing to visit fellow promoted team New Farnley tomorrow. “We are looking forward to that – we beat them there last year in Division Two,” he said.

Yeadon strengthened their side by signing batsman Oliver Stephenson from Scarborough club Flixton, the same club as Yeadon stalwarts Damon Gormley and Ben Elvidge, played for, and Kiwi all-rounder Eliot Herd, who was 13th man for New Zealand in their recent match against India.

They have also signed opening bowler Saeed Muhammed from Aire Wharfe League club Woodhouse, who has ambitions to play county cricket, and former Yeadon junior wicket-keeper Jake Wray, who has played for the Combined Services.

Todd said: “I am happy with our team, but the results have not gone our way. It will take a lot for our heads to go down.

"We have tried to get promotion for two years and we will be fighting in every game. Whether bottom or top, we won’t give anyone an easy ride.

“There are no whipping boys in this league - no teams you think are unbeatable. The league is open.”