IN view of the impact that the coronavirus pandemic has had on the Halifax Cricket League’s new sponsorship with Enco Ltd of Elland, coupled with the fact there is no change in the ECB's position that all recreational cricket matches remain suspended until further notice, the contract with the company has been amended.

The league have announced that the main three-year agreement has been moved forward by a year and will now cover seasons 2021, 2022 and 2023.

Enco has agreed to make an additional contribution for this season, to be determined at a later date when the total effect of Covid-19 can be assessed. It will also support, in addition, the league’s Piece Hall Cricket Ball event, which has now been rearranged for April 2021.

The league’s PR & media officer, Paul Whiteley, said: "It was clear that we could not deliver our part of the contract in full this season and it made sense to (safely) meet with Enco and come to a revised agreement.

"The result, I am pleased to say, is a win-win compromise in these testing times."

Enco’s managing director, Jamie Moody, commented: "I cannot believe that we have had to amend the contract after only signing the original in January. However, it is a sensible and positive move.

"Like the other 2,757 registered cricketers in the league, I am longing to get back into action, but patience is the key word. I trust that everyone stays safe."