Knockout cup

Timeline 1963-2005

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1963 - The Gillette Cup began with all 17 first-class counties taking part, The competition was called "The Knockout Cup" for the first year, all matches were 65 overs a side

1964 - The previous season's top five Minor Counties teams added to those taking part. The competition was called The Gillette Cup from this year, all matches were reduced to 60 overs a side

1980 - Ireland added to those who take part in the competition. Last year the competition was sponsored by Gillette.

1981 - National Westminster Bank became the sponsors of the competition.

1983 - Scotland added to those who take part in the competition. The number of Minor Counties taking part increased from five to 13.

1992 - Durham, on achieving first-class status added to those taking part in the competition, and the number of Minor Counties reduced to 12.

1995 - Holland added to those taking part in the competition (but barred from home fixtures because of lack of turf pitches), and the number of Minor Counties reduced to 11.

1999 - Competition reduced to 50 overs.

2001 - C&G take over sponsorship. First two rounds of the 2002 tournament played at the end of 2001. 2005 - Coloured clothing introduced, although only for first-class sides.