There were fears this week that the Cowboys would be the victims of their own stunning success with six players selected for the original State of Origin match.
But co-captain Chad Townsend believes the six-star selection – all youngsters except former Test back Val Holmes – will prove to be a boon for the club.
The Cowboys thrashed the Titans 32-6 last night without Ruben Cotter, Jeremiah Nanai, Valentine Holmes and Tom Deirden, while squad members Murray Toulagi and Hamiso Tabuai-Fido were allowed to play.
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“It wasn’t an easy week with six boys missing from training but I think in the long run it will be great for them and the club,” Townsend told Wide World of Sports.
“It will be invaluable for these guys just to be part of the original experience for them, to be part of the preparation, to be part of the best players in the game.
“None of them went through anything like that and they will come out as better players next Wednesday night.
“The confidence and experience they will gain playing on the biggest stage of the league will make them more effective than ever.
“They deserve to be elected and I’m excited for them.
“It’s going to be a difficult short time for us through Origin but hopefully they won’t get hurt and they will enjoy the benefits for the next few years.”
