Batsman wickets will be less costly at under-11 level next season in the Bradford Junior League.

Instead of the total being deducted by eight runs, each dismissal will cost a side only four runs.

The rule change, proposed by Bolton Villas and seconded by the league’s executive committee, was passed 15-12 at the annual meeting at Cleckheaton Sports Club.

Two other Bolton Villas proposals regarding under-11s were also passed – a clear definition of a no ball and mandatory marking of a centre line from stump to popping crease for batters and discretionary marking of inner lines to assist with wides.

However, two Villas proposals were heavily defeated – changing the age bands to under-tens, under-12s, under-14s and under-16s and making under-15s matches 25 overs per side, starting at 9.30am.

Another one was narrowly beaten – using six bowlers per innings at under-13 level, which failed 14-13.

The executive committee’s proposal to amend the overs per side in cup finals to 40 (under-17s and under-15s), 30 (under-13s) and 25 (under-11s) was passed 26-1.

They now also have the power to reduce the number of overs in these matches if the weather looks threatening.