The Aire-Wharfe League’s management committee are looking into ways to quicken up over rates and are also trying to ensure that teams field 11 players.

In his first annual report, league secretary Dave Alred said: “It is noted that over rates do not improve – in fact, they would appear to be worsening.

“The management committee are looking into what action, if any, should be taken, which may result in a point (or points) deduction.”

On teams not having 11 players, he said: “The number of instances with players short remained at 25 this season with 20 clubs involved – four more than 2009.

“Of concern, one club had four players short and two clubs had three players short, while seven clubs had two players short in matches.

“There were four occasions when third-XI clubs were unable to field a team, with one club pulling out of the competition two weeks before the due start.

“All the clubs were dealt with by fines, which may not be the best method – but until one is found, it will be the case.

“The management committee will be forming a small working group to look into the matter of player shortages and punishment, which is not limited to this league.”

As for disciplinary matters, Alred stated: “There were seven reported offences this year – two for threatening behaviour, four of dissent and one of an offence against bowling directives.

“Of these, two went to hearings where suspensions occurred, while the others received suspensions, advice and points deduction.

“It is a common belief that many incidents are not being reported and is causing a certain disquiet in standardisation of conduct in which some believe that they are above the ‘Spirit of Cricket’.”