Because the fixture load in both leagues is too light for some tastes, this should provide a welcome source of additional competition, as well as giving players from both leagues more chance to get to know one another.
The format of the Inter-League Cup is likely to change from year to year, given that the demands of the leagues are likely to vary from year to year.
In 2001, to compensate for the light fixture demands in the Premier League especially, the Inter-League Cup will consist of a "World Cup" style group phase -- with the composition of the groups seeded to ensure a good mix of players -- followed by a final knock-out phase. For the full format, click here. And for the full draw, click here.
At the end of July those league players who had achieved eligibility by playing the requisite number of league matches were invited to enter, and there were 18 positive responses. The draw was made on August 29th.
An entry fee of £5 will be levied from all entrants. This will provide the new trophy plus engraved mementoes for the finalists. There may also be small cash prizes if there is any money left over.