Tamou retains Cowboys ties

North Queensland have re-signed New South Wales and Australia forward James Tamou for a further three years.

Prop Tamou’s contract was due to run out at the end of next season, but instead the 23-year-old has elected to remain with the Townsville-based club until 2016.

Tamou, who was born in New Zealand but controversially decided to pledge his allegiance to Australia last year, has made 78 appearances for the Cowboys.

“When I first came to the Cowboys, I hadn’t played in the NRL and now I’m playing Origin and Test footy which shows how much being here has helped my game,” Tamou told the Cowboys’ official website.

“I owe this club a lot and I love the area and the people here so my goal was to stay with North Queensland.

“I think we have a great squad and can challenge for titles next year and beyond that.”

Cowboys football manager Peter Parr gave Tamou a glowing appraisal.

His 2012 season was one of the best by a front-rower in this club’s history,” Parr said.

“Not only did he play representative football, he excelled at that level and he was among our best players week-in, week-out with his teammates recognising him with the Players’ Player of the Year Award.

“At 24, his best years as a forward in the NRL are still ahead of him and our members and fans can look forward to at least his next four years being with the Cowboys.”