Youngsters told to stake a claim

With some of their professional players unavailable, the Cats take a youthful 12-man squad to Eastnor for the Minor Counties bow of the game's shortest form.

And after a hugely disappointing showing in last month's one-day tournament, in which Shropshire lost all three games, the county's chairman of selectors is keen to see what players can do ahead of the County Championship opener against Cheshire on June 7.

"It is a chance for some of these players to show they have something which we need," said Foxall.

"If someone impresses in this competition then we will certainly consider them for selection."

With Ben Sanderson and Gurman Randhawa both missing, Worfield's Will Cook is among those in the squad as the Cats look to book a place in finals day on July 12.

They face Oxfordshire at 1pm, before taking on the winners of Wales' clash with Herefordshire later in the day. The team which emerges victorious will go straight to finals day without having to appear in a play-off.

And Foxall acknowledges it promises to be a new experience for all concerned.

"It's obviously a bit of an unknown quantity because it's the first time we have played this competition and for a lot of teams at this level, it is the first time we have played this format," added Foxall.

"We have played a few friendlies over recent years and did OK against Worcestershire the other week when we played them at Bridgnorth.

"With players like Russ Aucott and Sam Whitney in the team, we will have a chance."

Perhaps more importantly for Shropshire, tomorrow is a chance to build confidence following their one-day struggles.

"We can't hide from the fact we have not played very well," admitted Foxall.

"There was a game against Northumberland at Oswestry which we should have won but, in the other two games, we were outplayed – there is no escaping that.

"I don't think there is any major reason.

"We have fielded competitive teams but have just not performed the way we would have liked."