This resulted in the decision that for the 1896–97 season the competition should be split into two separate county championships: Lancashire and Yorkshire.

[1] This season also saw the introduction of the Challenge Cup,[1] with Batley defeating St Helens in the inaugural final.

The new teams were Bramley, Castleford, Heckmondwike, Holbeck, Leeds Parish Church, Morecambe, Swinton and Salford.

[1] The leading try scorer overall this season was Hannah of Hunslet, who crossed the line 19 times.

[2] The leading goal kickers were Albert Goldthorpe of Hunslet and Sharpe of Liversedge who both successful 26 times.