XXXX things you need to know: Round 7 v Sharks

The North Queensland Toyota Cowboys travel to Sydney to face the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks on Sunday afternoon.

1. RAISING THE BAT

The month of milestones continues for the Cowboys, with Scott Drinkwater to celebrate his 100th club game. Drinkwater becomes the 31st player to appear in a century of games for the Cowboys.

2. SEMI RETURNS

Semi Valemei has been recalled for his first NRL action of 2023, replacing the injured Murray Taulagi on the left wing. Valemei scored nine tries in as many games during his maiden season in North Queensland in 2023. The 25-year-old has averaged 156 running metres a game for the Mackay Cutters in the Queensland Cup this season.

3. TAMING THE SHARKS

Few teams have troubled the Cowboys like the Sharks in recent seasons. North Queensland have just one victory over the men from The Shire in the previous five seasons, although the win was an important one. The Cowboys most recent victory at Shark Park was the extra time Qualifying Final 32-30 triumph courtesy of a miraculous Valentine Holmes field goal in  2022.

4. STATS UPDATE

Valentine Holmes continues to lead the NRL point-scoring race with 62 through six games, which is 12 clear of his closest competitor. Holmes also paces the competition with seven line-break assists. Scott Drinkwater is once again compiling a fantastic season. The Cowboys fullback sits inside the competition’s top five for tries, try assists and 40-20s. Chad Townsend leads the NRL with three field goals.