Russell playing for new NRL deal

By PARKER TAMBUA
PAPUA New Guinea Kumuls utility Daniel Russell says he is aiming to secure a new deal to remain at the North Queensland Cowboys from next season.
The 24-year old told The National from Townsville, Australia, last week that his two-year deal with the National Rugby League (NRL) side would expire at the end of this season.
“My main goal this year would definitely be to debut for the Cowboys as I grew up watching the club,” said Russell, whose father Mark was born in Port Moresby and raised in Madang.
“I am back training at the club with the squad for four weeks now. It’s great to be back with the boys.”
Russell spent last season playing for the Cowboys’ Intrust Super Cup feeder club Mackay Cutters.
He was promoted to the Cowboys’ 30-man roster for this season after spending last year in their development squad.
“Yes, I am in the top-30 and I’m hoping to re-sign with the club for next season,” said Longreach-born Russell, who played his junior football for the Emerald Brothers.
“Training was tough at the beginning of the NRL suspension as we did not know when we would be back.
“But with the programmes we were given, it kept us fit and prepared for when the season would resume.”
Meanwhile, Russell — who is 193cm tall and weighs 96kg — said he and his partner Beverly were expecting their first child later in the year.
“We are not married yet but we do have a baby boy due in December,” he said.
“We are excited.”