CLITHEROE skipper Paul Gaskell has hailed the return to form of batsman Peter Dibb – and hopes that he can now kick on as the Chatburn Road men chase the Houldsworth Solicitors Ribblesdale League title.

The 26-year-old Dibb has hit his straps in recent weeks and made 78 not out last Sunday as the runaway league leaders beat Great Harwood at The Cliffe.

While substitute professional Craig Thysson claimed many of the headlines with a glorious century, Gaskell insists Dibb’s innings was crucial in the context of the game.

“Dibby batted really well,” said the skipper.

“We know what he can do and it was good to see him back to form.

“We knew just what Craig would do and he didn’t disappoint with his innings but Pete played superbly and that is a big bonus for the team.”

A 24-point haul from the two weekend games last time out really enhanced Clitheroe’s chances of the title but Gaskell is not getting carried away despite a 35-point advantage over Barnoldswick, who have replaced Read in second spot.

“There is a lot of cricket to be played and things can change very quickly,” added Gaskell.

“It only takes a couple of bad results and all the good work can go out of the window.”

Clitheroe make the trip to North Yorkshire tomorrow for their game with Settle and Gaskell wants to make sure his men are on their mettle at Marshfield.

“It’s not always been the happiest hunting ground for us”, he said.

“They are a good side and we will have to be at our best to win.”

Clitheroe are hopeful that professional Kashif Siddique will be back in time for the trip to the Dales after his recall to Pakistan to take part in a domestic Twenty20 tournament.

“He is due back tonight,” said Gaskell. “There shouldn’t be any problems but you never know if flights start to get delayed.

“But we have our fingers crossed that he will be on time.”