FLIXTON today pulled out of the Bolton League to join the Greater Manchester League in a development which could spark chaos in local cricket.

The dramatic twist comes 11 days after the deadline for clubs to move leagues.

To add to the growing rift between the two leagues it is also understood the GMCL did not follow accepted protocol by asking the Bolton League if they would allow Flixton to go.

This has been regarded by the Bolton League as a precedent which could open the way for more clubs to move leagues.

With the Bolton League already doing their planning on their structure based on the number of members they had at the June 30 deadline, and with the GMCL soon to start doing so, this could lead to chaos in the two leagues.

The secretary of the Bolton League, Ray Taylor, said: "This sets an interesting precedent and the Bolton League will consider applications from clubs in other leagues who find themselves in a similar position."

That will be seen as a clear indication that the Bolton League will accept clubs who may be unhappy with their place in the GMCL structure when it is put in place over the next few months.

Flixton's change of heart came following Thursday's meeting of the Bolton League when it was decided to begin their expanded set-up next season with one division going to two the following year.

Flixton are understood to have wanted to start in the top division of a two-division initial structure.

It is understood the Bolton League have no issues with Flixton, and they would not have stood in their way had they been approached by the GMCL but would have insisted on certain stipulations.

That they did not get the opportunity to put those stipulations to the GMCL is the crux of the issue.

Flixton's departure now leaves the Bolton League with 21 clubs which, remarkably, could now fluctuate once again with the Bolton League now apparently willing to follow what they see as the GMCL's precedent of accepting clubs after the deadline

The Bolton League do not expect any more clubs to pull out, despite some others also voting for a first-season two-division structure at last Thursday's meeting.

It is believed the Bolton League would only consider clubs from the GMCL and not any other league following today's development.

Flixton's arrival in the GMCL takes their membership to 49 clubs.

The GMCL announced the news on their website today, saying: "Following much thought and discussion within the club, Flixton CC have confirmed that they have notified the Bolton Leagues that they withdraw their application.

"Late on last evening the club formally applied to join the Greater Manchester League for 2016 and this application was accepted this morning and we are delighted to welcome the club on board for the season ahead."