The North Queensland Toyota Cowboys have signed halfback Chad Townsend to a three-year deal beginning in the 2022 season.
Townsend has appeared in 182 NRL games over the course of a stellar 11-year career with the Sharks and Warriors.
The 30-year-old was an instrumental member of the Sharks’ powerhouse outfit which claimed a historic maiden premiership in 2016.
Townsend has compiled a prolific career in Sharks colours, ranking 13th in points and 25th in appearances in club history.
Aside from his talent as a game manager, Townsend’s durability has also been a major asset during his decade in the NRL. Between 2015-2019, he appeared in at least 22 games in five consecutive seasons and boasts a career 68 per cent win rate.
“Chad is a premiership winner on the field and proven professional off it,” Cowboys Head of Football Micheal Luck said.
“The level of professionalism he brings off the field is what we were most impressed with when doing our research on Chad and we look forward to him mentoring our young playing group upon his arrival in 2022.”
Cowboys Head Coach Todd Payten said the club was excited to secure Townsend’s services for 2022 and beyond.
“We have made no secret of our intentions to secure a senior half after we lost our captain Michael Morgan to retirement,” he said.
“We were looking for a composed organising halfback who can steer the team around the park and I believe we have found that in Chad.
“He is a gifted kicker of the football, tackles well and is a strong voice on the field, which were three areas we highlighted when entering the market for a half.”
