Chad Townsend dispels rumours: ‘My future is in North Queensland’

Chad Townsend pointed his finger at Sydney journalists for using their platform to throw a “hand grenade” into Cowboys camp. Read what the North Queensland co-captain had to say.

Chad Townsend runs onto the field before the NRL match between Cronulla Sharks and North Queensland Cowboys. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)

Chad Townsend dispelled rumours he is departing North Queensland imminently, pointing the finger at Sydney journalists for using their platform to throw a “hand grenade” into Cowboys camp.

During NRL 360 on Monday night, Phil ‘Buzz’ Rothfield sensationally declared Townsend was being “shopped around” while Wests Tigers halfback Luke Brooks could join the Cowboys as soon as next season.

Townsend was left feeling frustrated after the comments were made without the opportunity for him to directly respond.

“I saw it last night and it’s a little bit frustrating when you can see a journalist just throw a hand grenade on a news program at prime time and create a bit of a mess,” Townsend said.

“My future is in North Queensland. I’m contracted here at the moment and next season, I’m very happy and my family is very settled.

“It’s a hand grenade, I’ll just leave it at that. It means nothing, I’m very happy here and I don’t really want to talk about it again to be honest.”

Chad Townsend celebrates a try. (Photo by Chris Hyde/Getty Images)

The Cowboys co-captain praised his fellow New South Welshman Reece Robson on earning State of Origin selection.

“I was over the moon for him, he’s someone that I’ve gotten really close to in my time up here in North Queensland,” Townsend said.

“He’s a great mate of mine and I know how hard he works, I know what his journey has been like.

He’s moved states, he’s changed clubs, he’s moved away from his family. He’s made a lot of sacrifices and he’s realising the dream.

“He’s a very passionate Blues supporter, a Blues man, and he won’t let the state down. He’ll do a great job and we’re so proud of him.”

Reece Robson of the Blues poses during a New South Wales Blues State of Origin media opportunity. (Photo by Jason McCawley/Getty Images)

After playing every game of the 2023 season out of position, Jake Granville is set to replace Robson as starting hooker.

Townsend had faith Granville would not miss a beat in the No.9 jersey.

“He’s mister fix-it. He epitomises what this club is all about and him going back to his preferred position of No.9 I think you’ll probably see an even better game from Jake,” Townsend said.

“It speaks volumes of the type of player he is, he’s played every game so far this season out of position, doesn’t whinge, doesn’t complain, he just gets on with the job.

“He’s a natural No.9, he’s built like a No.9. He’ll be there and he’ll be ready to go.”

The Cowboys take on the Penrith Panthers on Friday night in Townsville, kick-off at 8.00pm.

Originally published as Chad Townsend dispels rumours: ‘My future is in North Queensland’