Todd Payten faces a difficult selection call this week as the Cowboys prepare for their final game of the regular season, with a trio of rookies battling for an opportunity on the wing.
North Queensland's final weekend will be crucial as they look to build momentum heading into Week One of the finals, with Payten making it clear his side's focus is already on the play offs.
“We need to build into September,” Payten told the media.
But injuries have left the Cowboys short on options, with Zac Laybutt suffering a Category 1 HIA during Saturday's clash with the Wests Tigers, while Murray Taulagi's ongoing concussion concerns have further complicated the selection picture.
Instead, Payten could be forced to turn to one of three young options.
“The options are Rob Derby, Ronnie (Philitoga) and Kingy (Ethan King). They're the first three that come to mind,” Payten told the media.
“The first two have been playing really well in the Q Cup now for a little period, Ronny in particular.
“Rob's come back for three weeks and he's been pretty strong. So we'll just look at the tape and talk with the coaches and make a decision early in the week.”
Philitoga looms as one of the most intriguing options after being left out of his Queensland Cup side, potentially hinting at an NRL debut in Townsville.
The electric Fijian has impressed with his try-scoring ability in the Queensland Cup and could be handed his chance on the biggest stage.
Payten could also opt to stick with King, who stepped into the side to replace Laybutt against the Tigers, while Derby remains another genuine contender.
Derby has featured just once in the NRL this season and has largely found himself out of favour, but the outside-back shortage could provide him with another opportunity to prove his worth.
The decision takes on added importance given the Cowboys are set to welcome Sharks outside backs Sione Katoa and Jesse Ramien to the club next season.
For Derby, Philitoga and King, the final weeks of the season therefore represent more than simply an opportunity to fill a vacant jersey.
With competition for spots only set to increase in 2027, whoever gets the nod will have a chance to put their name firmly on Payten's radar heading into the new season.
