Wallabies coach Eddie Jones has labelled Shute Shield as part of the 'foundation of Australian Rugby' as the competition prepares to enter finals in its 100th season.
The Shute Shield will celebrate his centurion year in 2023, with the finals series kicking off from August 12.
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It will culminate with the Grand Final at Leichhardt Oval on August 26
The Shute Shield has been the proving ground for Super and International talent for generations, including Jones.
Jones started his career with Randwick and believes the competition and Brisbane's Hospital Cup have become the cornerstone of the game in Australia.
“I think the Shute Shield and the equivalent in Brisbane are the foundation of Australian Rugby. We’ve also been a very strong club system," said Jones in a documentary launched by NSW Rugby and Shute Shield in late June.
“Traditionally the best players came out of the club system and played on for their states and country.
“Club Rugby drives the grassroots game. It encourages kids to play the game and that’s where it all starts. I think significantly that club competition is going to be so important for Rugby to flourish in Australia.”
This is typified when looking at the sides in the finals, with Eastwood including Waratahs star Tane Edmed along with Australia A star Lachie Anderson for the clash with Manly at TG Milner on August 13.
It offsets the loss of Eastwood and Rebels forward Michael Icely, who claimed the Ken Catchpole Medal as best player in the competition.
The finals will kick off with minor premiers Norths taking on Hunter Wildfires at North Sydney Oval.
Norths have won 11 of their last 12 games and are boosted by Waratahs lock Hugh Sinclair whilst the Wildfire will call upon Rebels scrumhalf Ryan Louwrens.
Club champions Randwick conclude the round, welcoming Gordon to Coogee Oval.
The 'Wicks have the unique distinction of having every team in the finals. They went narrowly close to claiming all four-grade minor premierships, missing the first-grade title on points difference.
