Three more places could become available in the HCPL next season after all 13 Hertfordshire-based clubs voted this week to return to the Hertfordshire Cricket League.

That means HCPL Division Two East could be scrapped and a new, two-tier league formed in its place.

Finchampstead CC, who finished second in Thames Valley League Division One last season, are likely to take one of the three places, with another place going to the second-best team in the Cherwell League last season and the other to West Berkshire side Falkland, who would be granted a reprieve from relegation.

HCPL chairman Ray Wood told the Chronicle: “All Hertfordshire clubs voted on Monday to rejoin the Hertfordshire League which will mean changes for the Home Counties Premier League.

“The likelihood is that Division Two East will be scrapped and the three Hertfordshire teams in Division One will be also be replaced.

“It will probably mean the Home Counties Premier League will become two divisions in the future.”

However, the timing of the restructure could be a sticking point, according to Wood.

“Hertfordshire teams want the change to take place in 2015 but we believe it would be better to make the changes now in time for the start of the 2014 season and we will be pushing for that to happen,” he explained.

“If it drags on until 2015 there would be no relegation in the Home Counties next season.

“Say, for example, North Mymms have to travel to Banbury on the last day, will they put out their strongest side?

“I’m not saying they wouldn’t but it’s something which has to be considered. The best option for us would be a clean break now.”

HCPL administrators are now in talks with representatives from the Thames Valley League, Cherwell League and the Hertfordshire League in an effort to thrash out a resolution.