THE Lancashire League deal with British Cricket Balls was under threat today.

Worried League officials have returned 15 of the BCB 'Dukes Ball' after complaints from several clubs including champions Rishton, Nelson, Church and Rawtenstall.

The clubs in question have complained the match balls have gone badly out of shape during matches.

The Lancashire League discussed complaints at the regular monthly meeting this week and decided to act.

Now they have asked the manufacturers to look urgently at the problem - or risk losing the supply deal next season.

Lancashire League secretary Rod Slater explained: "We've had a problem with a number of the Dukes cricket balls going out of shape and we've returned around 15 to British Cricket Balls' headquarters at Paddock Wood in Kent.

"We're currently talking about a three-year deal with the company. But if they don't get it right then we'll have to look elsewhere."

The Lancashire League have spent £7,000 for the supply of the Dukes Ball for the 1996 Lancashire League campaign and Mr Slater added: "It is not a major catastrophe but it is a problem which shouldn't arise.

"I have rung round each and every club and the majority of them have not reported any problems.

"British Cricket Balls are looking into the matter urgently and they've assured us that there shouldn't be any further problems.

"Obviously stocks have become a bit depleted and we've asked the manufacturers to replace the balls we've sent back."

A spokesman for British Cricket Balls said: "We're pretty confident that the situation can be sorted out. We are planning to take two or three balls apart and make a breakdown of the leather. A complaint like this is very unusual."

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