Cricket Scotland will throw open the doors of its leading knockout tournament to an extra 16 teams.

From next season the Scottish Cup will be contested by 48 sides including teams from the three SNCL feeder leagues as well as representatives from the Aberdeen Grades and the North of Scotland Cricket Association.

The 16 premier teams will receive a bye into the second round, but clubs have rejected a proposal they should be seeded to play at home.

Spokesman Stewart Oliver said: “There is a feeling expanding the cup will make it more of an event and it will certainly give the smaller teams a giant-killing opportunity.

“The decision to go with an open draw in the second round will also add a bit of excitement.”