Kaye to the fore as Birstall earn terrific victory

Dominic Richardson (83), Rashid Yousaf (76), Benedict Cooke (33) and Ismail Patel (26) all hit form as Altofts posted a useful 247-4.

Birstall were indebted to youngster Nick Kaye as he hit seven fours and five sixes on his way to 90 not out. Kaye was supported by useful contributions from Rob McFarlane (53), Craig Wood (40) and a quickfire 33 late on from James Byrne as they won with 15 balls to spare.

Batley are just three points above second-bottom Altofts after they suffered a four-wicket defeat at Carlton.

Chinnada Rudramurthy top scored with 53, while Imran Mayat hit 26 but crucially Batley were bowled out for 164 in the 43rd over as Chris Leaf (4-37), James Glynn (3-40) and Chris Kippax (3-16) did the damage.

Carlton made steady progress in reply, led by opener Phil Page (63) and Leaf (33no).

Carlton had received an additional six overs after Batley were bowled out cheaply and they eventually edged home in the 53rd over to pick up six valuable points.

Townville lead the way in the Premier Division, 12 points clear of Methley with seven games remaining.

Townville recorded a nine-wicket win over third placed Wakefield Thornes, while Methley thrashed bottom side Northowram Fields by 131 runs.

Wrenthorpe, who meet Methley in the Jack Hampshire final next week, lost by three wickets to Ossett.