I'm with Nick on this one! Having played a lot of 2nd xi and 1st xi cricket in the wepl, prem 2 and Bristol & Somerset.
When I was playing 2nd we couldn't bare the thought of getting relegated and playing on crap grounds, crap changing rooms and awful wickets! With the system the way that is it, 2nd xi sides can bat and bowl on good wickets, field on a true outfield, and benefit from the luxuries of sight screens, covers, etc.
As for the standard, the step up from Bristol & Somerset to Prem 2 wasn't as big as I expected, however 2nd xi to 1st xi is a massive gap!
I hope WEPL keep it the same, would be a shame if it was merged with shrubbery league for 2nd teams....