​The Outlaws coach suffered a thumb injury in Saturday’s win against the Cougars playing as catcher. 

Despite the loss of Shaw, the region’s coach Dale Smith is positive about the side’s chances against the state’s best country teams. 

"It is the best team they have put together,” he said. 

"Unfortunately, [Shaw] would have been one of our starting or relieving pitchers and a very sound infielder and reserve catcher.

“But we have a very strong pitching staff.

"We have a lot of experience in there with Mick Alldis and John Warren, who are probably getting towards the end of their representative careers.

“But the quality of the baseball they're playing is phenomenal at the moment. 

"They're invaluable for their experience to the team.” 

It is a tough draw for the team who will compete in A division.

Cairns have brought a side down for the tournament and Tamworth will face them first on Friday night.

Tamworth plays Newcastle on Saturday morning and Illawarra that afternoon. 

"Newcastle has always been very strong,” Smith said. "Illawarra have strength too, and they wouldn't bring a weak side down from Cairns. 

“I am sure we are going to be competitive and all the fellas are really keen.” 

The Outlaws included in the side (with Shaw’s omission) are Mick Alldis, Brad Smith, Cam Beat, Masashi Suzuki and Aiden Lee.