XXXX things you need to know: Round 21 v Sharks

The North Queensland Toyota Cowboys host the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks at Queensland Country Bank Stadium on Saturday evening.

1. TAULAGI A CHANCE

Todd Payten has named an unchanged 17 from Sunday’s thrilling victory over the Bulldogs. Although, Murray Taulagi has been named in the reserves and could be a chance to return from a hamstring injury suffered in Round 18.

2. TOUGH RIVALS

The Cowboys and Sharks have already met once this season, with Cronulla prevailing heavily at PointsBet stadium. The Cowboys will be desperate to right the ship against the men from The Shire, having not beaten the Sharks in North Queensland since 2018.

3. HONOURING A LEGEND

The Cowboys and Sharks will again play for the Paul Green Medal, which is awarded to the Player of the Match. Green appeared in 35 games for the Cowboys between 1999-2000, but his everlasting achievement came as Head Coach, leading North Queensland to its historic maiden premiership in 2015. Green also played in 95 games for the Sharks.

4. STATS UPDATE

Scott Drinkwater continues to rank in the NRL’s top five in a number of attacking stats, including leading the competition in line-break assists with 21 and 40-20s with three. Drinkwater is tied for second with 18 try assists and total runs with 339. Valentine Holmes sits second with 148 points, trailing only Jamayne Isaako (163). Reuben Cotter ranks third with 693 tackles.