The North Queensland Toyota Cowboys have agreed to a two-year contract extension with playmaker Scott Drinkwater for the 2022 and 2023 seasons.
Drinkwater joined the Cowboys in mid-2019 and has appeared in 34 games over the course of three seasons.
The 23-year-old has proved a major attacking threat for North Queensland splitting time between fullback and five-eighth, finishing fifth in the NRL with 19 try assists in 2020.
Drinkwater again leads the Cowboys with five try assists in 2021 and has also added two tries in eight games.
“Scott is a naturally gifted player who can do things a lot of other players can’t,” Cowboys Head of Football Micheal Luck said.
“While Scott is playing in the halves currently, he’s also proven he has the strings in his bow to play other positions. With the attrition rate in the NRL this year, guys who can play multiple positions are extremely valuable.
“We’re thrilled Scott has agreed to stay for two more years and we look forward to the contribution he will continue to make to our club.”
Cowboys Head Coach Todd Payten said Drinkwater has made major strides in his game over the opening two months of the season.
“I’ve really seen Drinky’s game grow since the season started as he’s understanding what it takes to become a five-eighth at NRL level,” he said.
“He’s quick, he can identify space, he’s skilful and he’s learning he doesn’t always need to make the big play, it’s about applying pressure to the other team through field position.
“I’m excited we have been able to retain Drinky at the Cowboys and I believe he is going to be a major asset for our club moving forward.”
