TWENTY20 is generally seen as a force for good in cricket.

But the six-hitting that often comes with it and which has changed the game has only caused problems for Dales Council League club Farnley Hill.

Playing on the postage stamp of a ground next to the Greyhound pub at Tong, the club – who played in the top flight (A Division) last season – have run into a potential issue with their insurers.

Club secretary David Harland explained: "We have had problems with cars being hit by cricket balls and this has come about since T20 cricket.

"We had two instances last season, once when a car was driving past the ground and once when a car was hit in the driveway of a house over the road."

Neither needed a massive blow and Harland added: "Our insurers have intimated that they may not be renewing our insurance, so we have decided to move grounds.

"The drivers of the cars were understanding but each instance could have cost £500 to £600 as they were not damage that you could easily repair.

"We have merged with Gildersome in the Bradford League and will play there. They have approved our new name of Gildersome and Farnley Hill, where the clubs are pooling their resources and have basically taken over their second team.

"It is a pity that we have had to move as we have had a good relationship with the Dales Council League."

Farnley Hill skipper Gethin Clarke reflected: "Farnley Hill has been around many years and has always been a nomadic team.

"Tong is a lovely place to play when the sun is shining and the beer garden is full but as the standard of the Dales Council A Division has increased, the issues with damaged cars and balls being lost etc has increased with it.

"The merger with Gildersome makes so much sense for both parties pooling both our resources. I'm really excited about the future for Gildersome and Farnley Hill Cricket Club and the fact the Farnley Hill name will carry on in some capacity.

"We have a home to call our own and a chance to build a sustainable future.

"We hope that anyone that has played or supported Farnley Hill in the past will support the merger and hope to see them up at Gildersome and Farnley Hill Cricket Club next season."