Tom Dearden to join North Queensland Cowboys
Tom Dearden in action for Brisbane Broncos
North Queensland Cowboys have signed half-back Tom Dearden from rivals Brisbane Broncos on a three-year deal from 2022.
The 20-year-old has made 22 NRL appearances for the Broncos since making his first team debut in 2019. He is a former Australian Schoolboys representative.
Dearden will join Chad Townsend at the Cowboys next season, with the latter also joining the club on three-year deal from Cronulla Sharks.
Cowboys coach Todd Payten said: “Tom organises his team with great maturity for a 20-year-old, he’s a strong runner, he kicks well and he gets his body in front as a defender.
“He played first grade at 18, so it’s clear he has an abundance of ability and he’s been the standout half in his age group coming through the grades.
“On top of that he is a North Queensland kid, who is a really good person that is going to add significant value to our roster.”