Jake Clifford’s No.7 hopes take big hit as North Queensland Cowboys halfback goes under the knife

North Queensland’s incumbent halfback Jake Clifford has taken a massive hit to his chances of wearing the Cowboys No.7 jersey in round 1 after undergoing minor surgery on Wednesday.

Jake Clifford of the North Queensland Cowboys during Round 24's clash with the Canberra Raiders at Queensland Country Bank Stadium on August 17, 2024. Picture: NRL Photos

North Queensland’s incumbent halfback Jake Clifford has taken a massive hit to his chances of wearing the Cowboys No.7 jersey in round 1 after undergoing minor surgery on Wednesday.

Clifford underwent a straightforward surgery on a hernia which is expected to keep him away from full-contact training for a small period of time.

The Cowboys are confident the 27-year-old Tully Tigers junior will be available for selection in the club’s first trail match against the Dolphins on February 14.

However training for up to five weeks of pre-season in a limited capacity will give Tom Duffy and Jaxon Purdue ample opportunity to impress coach Todd Payten.

Duffy said his teammate’s injury wouldn’t hold Clifford back from fighting for a starting position in round 1.

“I think it was just a minor strain, so he’ll be ready for round 1,” Duffy said.

“I’m looking forward to him getting back into training and having a good tussle for that seven jersey.

“It makes everyone a better player. It’s no secret that competition makes a team better and that’s happening here, and it’s happening in numerous positions.

“Everyone at training has just gone to another level which everyone loves to see.”

Originally published as Jake Clifford’s No.7 hopes take big hit as North Queensland Cowboys halfback goes under the knife