After three years in the doldrums, things are looking up at Skipton in the Aire-Wharfe League.

It took them until the middle of July last season to win 12 points.

They only managed 26 all campaign, including six for games affected by rain, on the way to propping up the whole of the league.

But with two emphatic wins under their belt, Skipton sit at the top of Division Three alongside Addingham and Silsden.

Their stated aim was to recruit so they could at least ‘provide better opposition’ and they have certainly done that. Overseas player Faisal Hussain has been among the wickets as Skipton bowled out both Illingworth and Woodhouse, while Richard Nichols, signed from the Nidderdale League, has impressed with bat and ball.

Throw in a century from Steve Carling and 75 from Arshad Latif as Skipton have notched more than 200 runs in each innings, something they managed only once in the whole of last season, and it is easy to see why their rivals are sitting up and taking notice.

On Saturday they face the toughest test so far when they entertain Silsden, who have also won two out of two on the back of some outstanding bowling from Jack Roberts and Matthew Shuttleworth.

It promises to be a tight affair, while Addingham will expect to pick up all six for the third time against Illingworth.

Having gone down to a surprise defeat by Horsforth, Olicanian will hope to get back on track at Hall Park, while Menston, who are still looking for their first win, host Woodhouse and Horsforth entertain Alwoodley, who look a more dangerous side than for many seasons.

Division One leaders Guiseley take a 100 per cent record to Otley, who crushed Kirkstall in the opening match but were second best at Beckwithshaw.

Ben Rhydding entertain Kirkstall, each hoping to build on last week’s first win, while Steeton and Burley face each other.

There will already be some tension creeping in when Harden play host to Follifoot, both sides having suffered heavy defeats in their two opening matches.

Green Lane, who share top spot in Division Two with Adel, are at Knaresborough, whose third place may turn out to be somewhat false as it includes a win over struggling Bardsey.

Still smarting from throwing away a winning position against Adel, Rawdon should prove too strong for Calverley, who have lost both matches so far, while Ilkley will seek to impose themselves on Tong Park Esholt, who are still looking for their first win following promotion.

Thackley will look to get their season back on track but will be aware that in Sam Lawrence and Michael Oldfield, Bolton Villas can be dangerous in attack.