The North Queensland Cowboys are facing a significant setback in their quest for a finals spot, as State of Origin winger Murray Taulagi is unlikely to return this season. Todd Payten's team sits eighth on the NRL ladder, with only two rounds to go, and the Bulldogs chasing closely behind in ninth.
Unfortunately, it appears the Cowboys will have to continue the season without Taulagi. The six-time State of Origin representative has been suffering from recurring concussion issues in 2026, limiting him to just 17 appearances. This week, he sustained his third concussion of the year during training and has been sidelined for six weeks. With the grand final just around the corner, it's improbable that Taulagi will be back this season.
"He's seen the independent doctor and he's stood down for six weeks," Payten stated on Friday. "It's really disappointing, heartbreaking for him to finish that way with the club. I think everyone's taken it pretty hard initially, but it's important that what he does with the club for the next little period, he finishes on a good note within the building. Everyone's disappointed for him and he'll be sadly missed."
In an unfortunate turn of events, Taulagi may have played his final game for the Cowboys before moving to French rugby. "He's a real bubbly, infectious, important part of the team and I'm going to miss his cheek," Payten added. "He's got an opportunity overseas playing rugby in France and I think he's very excited about that."
Payten also shared that the club may have let Taulagi go too soon, believing he was transferring to a Sydney club. They subsequently signed Jesse Ramien and Sione Katoa from the Sharks to fill the gap, but Taulagi ultimately did not make the move to Sydney.
On a positive note, the Cowboys will see the return of their captain Tom Dearden for Sunday's match against the Wests Tigers. The State of Origin half has fought through multiple leg injuries this season and has played just 11 games.
Payten's squad will be optimistic about their finals qualification prospects, with upcoming matches against the 14th-placed Tigers and 12th-placed Raiders, while the Bulldogs play the Panthers (2nd) and Broncos (15th) to finish the regular season.