The
North Staffordshire Regiment, who had competed in the league since the
1896–97 season, were unable to compete this season due to being deployed to South Africa. They were replaced by another British Army team, the
Royal Scots. However Royal Scots themselves had to resign from the league after seven games due to the regiment also being posted to South Africa to serve in the
Second Boer War. Their remaining matches were left unplayed with no points awarded. ==Teams and locations==