THE new Lancashire Inter-League Knockout Cup is here to stay.

That is the clear message as the inaugural tournament reaches the quarter-final stages.

Nelson, Todmorden and Haslingden fly the flag for the Lancashire League against the CLL tomorrow.

Nelson boast home advantage against Milnrow at Seedhill, while Brad McManamara's Haslingden face a tough duel at Middleton and Todmorden travel to Werneth.

There were reservations expressed in certain quarters when the competition was proposed last year.

But Lancashire League chairman Peter Westwell said: "The Inter-League knockout has proved a breath of fresh air.

"We have probably become too parochial in our outlook over the years and the Inter-League Cup has proved very popular.

"It appears to have caught the imagination of the spectators as well because gates have been extremely good.

"We've seen recepits of £400-500 at some clubs and that is very encouraging for a cup competition in its first year.

"Both leagues play extremely competitive cricket and I think the standard of cricket has more than justified the competition.

"Most clubs feel it has given the season an extra edge with two good cup competitions on the boil."

The Inter-League Knockout Cup final is scheduled for Monday, August 25 at a venue to be decided.

Quarter final fIxtures: Middleton v Haslingden, Walsden v Littleborough, Nelson v Milnrow, Werneth v Todmorden.

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