North Queensland Cowboys’ star fullback, Scott Drinkwater, has provided a candid insight into his future beyond the upcoming season, signalling a strong desire to remain with the club that has become his home. Despite the Cowboys experiencing a challenging 2025 campaign, Drinkwater emerged as a consistent standout, showcasing his attacking flair and reliable goalkicking. His impressive average of 147 running metres per game underscored his importance to the team, even amidst their struggles.
As Drinkwater’s current contract approaches its expiry, he becomes eligible to negotiate with rival clubs from November this year. Speaking on SENQ Breakfast, he expressed his preference to stay in Townsville, acknowledging the strong community ties his family has forged. However, he also recognises the pragmatic realities of professional sport.
“I would like to stay in the north,” Drinkwater stated. “I do like it up here, and my wife has a good bunch of friends up here and close with everyone. Look, it is a business. I’ll assess the situation when it comes.”
He went on to discuss the evolving landscape of the National Rugby League (NRL), particularly with the introduction of new teams and the increased competition for player spots. “I mean, there’s teams coming in and stuff, which means more players need to be put into squads, which means there’s more numbers (in NRL players),” he explained.
Drinkwater is well aware of the emerging talent within the Cowboys’ ranks, noting the presence of players like Ethan King, who has already been signed by the club. He also highlighted the potential of Mason Barber and Jaxon Purdue, who has shown promise at fullback.
Navigating Contract Decisions Amidst Club Talent Pipeline
“But first and foremost, I (would) like to stay here. I know they’ve got Ethan King; they’ve signed him. Mason Barber (is) a good talent. Jaxon Purdue showed some good things at fullback,” Drinkwater elaborated. “The club has a decision as well, but I think I need to play some good footy and the rest sorts itself out.” This sentiment reflects a player focused on performance as the primary driver for securing his future.
The Allure and Challenges of the PNG Chiefs Expansion
Adding another layer to the player market is the impending entry of the PNG Chiefs into the NRL in 2028. This new franchise is already generating buzz with significant incentives for players, including a tax-free salary, a proposition that Drinkwater admits is “off its head.”
“It is off its head when you think about it, isn’t it?” he commented. “Considering when you do look at your paycheck and your tax bill. So, look, that is a big incentive.”
However, the practicalities of relocating to a new country, particularly for a player with a young family, present considerable hurdles. Drinkwater candidly discussed the challenges of being further away from support networks.
“But it all depends. I mean, if people were thinking of going there, you’d have to go there and tour what they have going on and stuff like that. And when you’ve got young kids as well (and) if you want to take them further north. We’re doing it tough at the moment up here; we’ve got no support, so going further north, we’ll have even (less) support and be further away from everyone.”
Despite these reservations, the financial implications of such a move are undeniably attractive. “But look, it is off its head, the money. You’d set yourself up for life, wouldn’t you?”
Recruitment Drive for the PNG Chiefs
By November this year, the PNG Chiefs are expected to commence their recruitment drive, aiming to assemble a competitive squad for their 2028 NRL debut. Already, players like Cronulla Sharks prop Toby Rudolf have expressed their interest in being among the first to sign with the expansion team.
Cowboys Kick Off Season Against Wests Tigers
Meanwhile, the North Queensland Cowboys are set to commence their 2025 season this Saturday. Their opening fixture will see them travel to Leichhardt to face the Wests Tigers, following their recent participation in the Las Vegas exhibition games. The team will be looking to build on their experiences and improve on their performance from the previous year.
