Batley remain top despite agonising defeat at rivals

An opening stand of 99 between Muhammed Tahir and Imran Mayat set the visitors a solid platform but Batley were eventually bowled out for 226.

Despite the best efforts of Muhammed Hafeez (4-80) the league leaders fell to their first league defeat of the season as Northowram edged home off the penultimate ball of the match thanks to a 24-run last wicket stand between Chris Thompson (21no) and James Norcliffe (3no) after opener Rob Larner had earlier top scored with 77.

Liversedge moved up to third place, five points behind Batley and Northowram, with a four wicket victory against Wakefield St Michael’s.

Fine bowling performances from Simon Kay (4-31), Will Atkin (3-15) and Graeme Winn (3-17) helped dismiss the home side for 101 in 38.2 overs.

Sedge opener Alan Sumner (38) and Atkin (37) steered their side to a four-wicket win.

East Leeds earned a 13-run victory over Oulton, while Buttershaw St Paul’s gained a four-wicket success over East Ardsley, who slip a place to fourth.

Mirfield remain rooted to the foot of Division One after losing at home to Gildersome.

Alexender Pearson was the pick of nine Mirfrield bowlers used, with figures of 3-35, as Gildersome posted 204-9, with Mark Simpson (49) top scoring.

Youngster Pearson capped an impressive all-round display by top scoring with 77 off just 67 balls but Mirfield were dismissed for 134.