North Queensland have put together a fantastic squad ahead of 2024 and their depth is there for all to see especially in the backs.
Among them, they have Kyle Feldt. One of the greatest outside backs in Cowboys history, Feldt is closing in on two major milestones. Feldt needs just three tries to break Matt Bowen’s club record of 130. The 31-year-old is also eight games short of 200 Cowboys appearances, which triggers automatic life membership.
They also have Valentine Holmes. Entrenched as one of the top centres in the NRL, Holmes continues to be one of the main focal points of the Cowboys’ attack. In just four seasons, Holmes has already moved into third for the most points in Cowboys history with 605, trailing just Johnathan Thurston (2,196) and Josh Hannay (882).
Murray Tualagi is another great option. A Queensland State of Origin incumbent and a Test representative for both Australia and Samoa, Taulagi has made the left wing spot his own over the previous three seasons. Taulagi has formed a lethal left-edge combination with Valentine Holmes, but he could also shape an outside chance to spend time at centre in 2024.
The same can be said of Semi Valemei. Became an instant fan favourite upon his arrival from the Raiders mid-season in 2023 courtesy of a hat-trick on debut against the Storm. Fearless with the ball in hand, Valemei finished with six tries in his nine games for the Cowboys in his maiden season in North Queensland. The 24-year-old will be in competition with Feldt for a Round 1 wing spot.
Adding more depth is Viliami Vailea. Recruited from the Warriors, Vailea is the leading contender to fill the centre spot vacated by Peta Hiku. Still just 21, Vailea enters his fourth season of NRL in 2024. An imposing outside back from Tonga, Vailea possesses impressive footwork to couple with a powerful carry.
Whilst PNG star has been in high demand Zac Laybutt but recently inked to a one-year extension, Laybutt is firmly in the mix for the vacant centre spot. The 21-year-old scored three tries in four games during his debut season. A skillful centre, who grew up playing in the halves, Laybutt made three appearances for PNG following the season, including the Pacific Bowl final victory over Fiji.
Rob Derby is another promising option too. Derby was sensational on NRL debut in Round 13, but a leg injury sustained in that game meant it was his only top-grade appearance of the season. A hulking winger also blessed with speed, Derby has scored 20 tries in 32 Queensland Cup games over two seasons. The Cairns product has registered four appearances at international level for PNG, including the 2023 Pacific Bowl victory over Fiji.
So, the Cowboys have great outside backs but have also added depth to their pack with the signing of Warrington Wolves star Thomas Mikaele.
Recently, the prop revealed he had every intention of staying at Warrington but the club couldn’t get a deal over the line.
He said: “I thought I was going to come back and was really excited about it in case anyone took it the the wrong way. There wasn’t any ill intent behind not returning. Just couldn’t make it happen. Those who know, know that I have love and respect for many people involved at the club.”
