League: NRL Sport: Rugby Country: Australia Category: General

Heilum Luki and Tom Chester drive North Queensland Cowboys finals push

Zero Tackle NRL • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 8, 2026, 8:39 PM

Last updated Sep 8, 2026

Heilum Luki and Tom Chester drive North Queensland Cowboys finals push

Summary

North Queensland Cowboys duo Heilum Luki and Tom Chester have secured consistent roles in the NRL squad following extended absences due to ACL injuries sustained in late 2024. Both players missed the entire 2025 season while completing rehabilitation programs, resulting in a combined 1,136-day gap between their NRL appearances. Since returning for the 2026 season, Luki has appeared in every match, recording 11 tries and averaging 105 running metres per game. His performance earned him selection as 20th man for Queensland in the State of Origin series. Meanwhile, Chester returned to the side for the Las Vegas season opener and has contributed 11 tries and two try-assists across his appearances. Their contributions have helped stabilize the Cowboys' position within the top eight of the league ladder as the club prepares for the upcoming finals series.

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Key Details

•Heilum Luki and Tom Chester missed the entire 2025 season with ACL injuries.
•Luki has scored 11 tries in 2026 and served as 20th man for Queensland.
•Chester returned from his second major ACL injury for the opening game in Las Vegas.
•The pair combined for 11 tries and two try-assists during the current season.
•North Queensland Cowboys currently hold a top-eight spot heading into the finals.

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From future representative starts, to current ones, it has been a true year for players who missed bulk time in 2025.
— Zero Tackle NRLby Samuel Sartori

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