When the Betfred Cup could begin after July start scrapped

The start date of the competition will likely be dependent on lower league clubs

The Betfred Cup is one of the many losers of the coronavirus pandemic.

The competition was due to begin in July with the group stages phase and a new broadcast deal with Premier Sports.

However, the start date has been scrapped with football not set to return until August.

The Betfred Cup could start in October. Picture: SNS

The SPFL hope for the Scottish Premiership to start that month when the lucrative new five-year broadcasting deal with Sky Sports commences.

With lower league clubs currently unsure when they will be back playing it has meant the Betfred Cup has had to be pushed back.

Clubs are weighing up the feasibility of being able to play behind closed doors, plus the medical costs due to Covid-19 screening and tests to keep players and staff safe.

The SPFL are still in discussions with Hearts benefactor and philanthropist James Anderson regarding investment in Scottish football.

It is hoped the money would allow clubs across the four leagues to return to action at some point this year.

According to the Scottish Sun, an October start date for the Betfred Cup is the aim. Yet, it will be dependent on when the lower leagues are able to get back up and running.

Meanwhile, there is still no date scheduled for the outstanding fixtures in the 2020 Scottish Cup, with Hearts and Hibs and Aberdeen and Celtic meeting in the semi-final of the competition.