Ahead of this weekend's big kick-off in the Betfred Cup, here's a reminder of how the new-look tournament works:
- 40 teams (38 SPFL clubs plus Highland League winners Cove Rangers and Lowland League representative East Stirlingshire) were drawn into eight sections of five.
- The eight group winners and four best runners-up progress to the last 16.
- They are joined in the knock-out phase by European entrants Celtic, Aberdeen, Heart of Midlothian and Hibernian.
- It's the usual three points for a win in the group stage.
- One point for a draw but all drawn games go straight to penalties, with the winning team earning a bonus point.
- Second round is scheduled for the midweek of August 9/10.
- Quarter-finals are on Tuesday/Wednesday September 20/21.
- Semi-finals will be played on Saturday/Sunday October 22/23.
- The 2016/17 Betfred Cup Final is scheduled for Sunday November 27.
- BT Sport have the right to show up to six group games live and another seven matches in the knock-out stage.
