Cowboys trial team list v Broncos

Author: Cowboys.com.au
Timestamp: Tue 14 Feb 2023, 03:18 PM

North Queensland Toyota Cowboys Head Coach Todd Payten will unleash his big guns for the first time in 2023 in Saturday night’s trial against the Brisbane Broncos at Sunshine Coast Stadium.

Payten has named an almost full-strength team to face the Broncos, with Jamayne Taunoa-Brown the only player available for Round 1 missing from the side. Taunoa-Brown suffered a minor rib injury while playing for the Indigenous All Stars last weekend and is expected to be fit for Round 1.

>>> Payten on Hess at second row, Tamou's fitness & JTB's injury

Coen Hess has been given first opportunity at the vacant left second row spot. Hess has spent the previous two years playing almost exclusively as a middle forward, including his Paul Bowman Medal-winning 2021 campaign.

Jack Gosiewski and James Tamou have both been included on the interchange after impressing in Sunday’s draw with The Dolphins in Cairns. Gosiewski also remains in the mix for a starting second row berth, while Tamou continues to fight for a Round 1 interchange spot.

World Cup stars Jason Taumalolo, Valentine Holmes, Murray Taulagi, Reuben Cotter, Jeremiah Nanai and Peta Hiku have all been included in the side.

Saturday’s game kicks off at 7.55pm.

Cowboys team to play Broncos:

1. Scott Drinkwater

2. Kyle Feldt

3. Valentine Holmes

4. Peta Hiku

5. Murray Taulagi

6. Tom Dearden

7. Chad Townsend (c)

8. Jordan McLean

9. Reece Robson