Taulagi on mission to repay faith

MURRAY Taulagi is only in his third full season of rugby league, but he is adamant he can do the Cowboys proud when he makes his NRL debut against the Rabbitohs on Saturday night.

Taulagi was recruited by the Cowboys in 2016 after he was spotted playing rugby union for Brisbane State High and he has quickly proved himself as one of rugby league’s hottest talents.

The 20-year-old has represented Queensland in the past two Under-20s State of Origin clashes while he also played for the Junior Kangaroos against the Junior Kiwis late last year.

Taulagi, whose older brother Jamie-jerry played 10 games for the Queensland Reds, said he never expected to switch to the 13-man code, but he was grateful for the opportunity at the Cowboys.

“I didn’t think I was going to make the shift over, but I’m still very excited to be out there and be here at this club especially. I just can’t wait to go out there and do the boys proud,” Taulagi said.

“It (the transition to rugby league) has been pretty tough, not as physical as rugby union, but definitely a challenge that I’m ready to take on.

“It would be a dream come true scoring a ‘meat pie’ on my debut.”

Taulagi already has a combination with Cowboys halfback Jake Clifford, having coming through the club’s under-20s system together while also playing for feeder team the Northern Pride last season.

Clifford described Taulagi as an aerial specialist and he was keen to make the most of the winger’s try-scoring talents.

“He’s a freak when he’s on so hopefully he can bring that on Saturday and help us try and get another win,” Clifford said.

“He’s definitely a kick target for us.”

Cowboys backrower Gavin Cooper will take the field for his 301st NRL game when Taulagi makes his debut, but the veteran believed the young winger also had a big future ahead of him.

“To see what he can do at training ... is only a small step towards where we think he can be,” Cooper said.