JAMES Smith believes winning a third-successive All Rounder Cricket Bradford Premier League title will prove to be Pudsey St Lawrence’s toughest test.

Three straight wins have taken them to the top of the table and tomorrow they visit their old rivals Woodlands, who are also unbeaten.

Yet skipper Smith is the first to admit that his side have not found their best form.

“It is pleasing to have won all three games because our performances have been patchy,” he admitted.

“We know this will be a tough match because Woodlands have a good side. They have strength from one to 11 and their spin bowlers are always a threat.

“Our matches against them are always good contests, although they outplayed us in last year’s Priestley Cup final.”

One of the pleasing features of the early matches has been the emergence of young spinners Tom Carlisle and Archie Scott.

With off-spinner Steve Watts sidelined due to a torn calf muscle, left-arm spinner Carlisle and leggie Scott have been given their chance.

Scott, who took four wickets on his debut against New Farnley last week and followed up with a couple against Cleckheaton in the Priestley Cup, retains his place.

Smith was impressed with the teenager’s didplay and said: “He showed good control and bowled with confidence.”

St Lawrence are determined to give their talented youngsters a chance whenever an opportunity arises.

“We have decided this year that if we need to bring a youngster in, he will be given his chance to be a direct replacement for whoever he replaces,” said Smith.

“Last week Archie came in for Mark Robertshaw and opened the batting as well a getting a proper bowl.

“It is important they learn about the challenges of first-team cricket and the step up from playing in the seconds.”

Farsley – who, like Woodlands, are two points behind St Lawrence – will be aiming for their fourth win as they entertain East Bierley.

One of the keys to their early success has been the form of seamer Chris Henry, who is the division’s top wicket-taker with 13.

Hanging Heaton, who are unbeaten despite being without overseas player Muhammad Rameez for the first three games, visit New Farnley.

Cleckheaton will be hoping to register their first win against Batley, who have also lost their first three matches.

Another team without a victory are rock-bottom Bradford & Bingley. Batting has been at the root of their problems and they will be hoping for an improvement at Lightcliffe.

Pudsey Congs, who beat Batley last week, travel to the second newly-promoted club Townville.