North Queensland Cowboys centre Zac Laybutt is poised to be ruled out of the Las Vegas season opener, having been charged for a dangerous throw during a pre-season trial match. This development comes as a significant setback for the team as they prepare for their first game of the season.
Incident and Immediate Consequences
During the first half of the Cowboys' commanding 66-24 victory over a severely under-strength Penrith Panthers side, Laybutt was sin-binned after upending Panthers five-eighth Keahn Skipps with a dangerous throw. The incident occurred in a trial match that showcased North Queensland's offensive prowess but also highlighted disciplinary issues.
On Saturday morning, the NRL judiciary hit Laybutt with a grade-two dangerous throw charge. This means the outside back will miss two games, even if he submits an early guilty plea. The ban effectively sidelines him for crucial early-season fixtures, including the highly anticipated Las Vegas opener.
Impact on Cowboys' Season Start
Laybutt's looming suspension deals a blow to the Cowboys, who enter the season opener against the Newcastle Knights with coach Todd Payten's job already under scrutiny. The 24-year-old spent most of last season in the centres and was widely expected to start there this year, making his absence particularly untimely.
With Laybutt out, the Cowboys may need to accelerate the return of Tom Chester to first grade. Chester is recovering from last year's ACL rupture, and the team had planned to ease him back through Queensland Cup matches. Now, they might be forced to bring him straight into the starting lineup, risking his long-term fitness.
Potential Lineup Adjustments
Additionally, Laybutt's ban could force the Cowboys to lock Jaxon Purdue into starting the season in the other centre spot. Purdue trialled at both centre and five-eighth during Friday night's match, demonstrating his versatility. The Cowboys now face a strategic decision on whether to partner Purdue or Jake Clifford with Tom Dearden in the halves.
Clifford had looked every chance of retaining the No.6 jersey, having impressed in North Queensland's two pre-season trial wins. His performance has been a bright spot, but Purdue's form adds complexity to selection. Purdue proved a threat wherever he played on the field, helping lay on two tries and scoring one of his own against the Panthers.
This lineup shuffle comes at a critical time, as the Cowboys aim to build momentum early in the season. The team's depth will be tested, and how they adapt could set the tone for their campaign ahead.
