Minor Counties cricket could be set to follow the first-class game and introduce a two-divisional championship with promotion and relegation for the new millennium.

An internal survey amongst the 20 Minor Counties clubs has shown more than half favour a new set-up involving promotion and relegation.

Eleven counties are in agreement, two more believe the proposal is ``worthy of further careful consideration'' while only six were against such a move. One county failed to respond to the questionnaire.

Players and spectators were also asked to take part in the survey, and they too largely supported the idea. Most counties believe the split should happen in the year 2000, and the majority backing the proposal suggest two teams should be promoted and relegated each season.

As for the initial make-up of the two divisions, the general consensus is that performances over the previous five seasons should count. However some counties feel that the qualification time span should be only three years, and others that just the previous season should count.

The MCCA have announced several modifications to the playing conditions for the 1999 championship. The confusing issue of bonus points in the second innings of 'grade' matches has been scrapped, while the side batting first in 'grade' games can now use no more than 54% of the overs available (130 in a normal game).

Batting bonus points in 'grade' games will now only be available in the first 100 overs, rather than 120, and the cut-off time for embarking on the second innings in 'grade' matches has now been brought forward to 3.30pm on day two.

The deduction of points for slow over rates is also being introduced into the championship. Counties will be docked two points in any game where they fail to bowl 17 overs an hour, and five points if their rate drops below 16 an hour.

The Championship Final, normally a two-day game, will be played over three days in 1999. The first innings of each finalist will be restricted to 80 overs apiece. The 1999 final will be played on a home venue of the Eastern Division winners.