Heilum Luki and Tom Chester drive North Queensland Cowboys finals push

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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