Cricket coach Pete Steindl is backing Scotland to be more than just also-rans in the new Pro40 tournament.

Scotland were drawn in a seven-team group with Durham, Warwickshire, Hampshire, Kent, Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire on Monday for the 2010 season.

And Steindl insists the county opposition is crucial for the development of his side.

“There is some fantastic cricket to look forward to,” said Steindl. “This competition forms a very important part of our fixture list.

“With a number of young players breaking into our team it is probably more important than ever that we gain experience against quality opposition.

“Forty overs condenses everything and I think we will learn to play with greater intensity which we can then transfer to ODI cricket.”