The Mole: State of Origin pain a long-term bonanza for North Queensland
There were fears this week that the Cowboys would be the victims of their own stunning success with six players chosen for the opening State of Origin match.
But co-captain Chad Townsend believes the selection of the six stars - all youngsters with the exception of former Test back Val Holmes - will prove a bonanza to the club.
The Cowboys smashed the Titans 32-6 without Reuben Cotter, Jeremiah Nanai, Valentine Holmes and Tom Dearden last night, while squad members Murray Taulagi and Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow were allowed to play.
READ MORE: Chaotic opening day leaves first Test between England and New Zealand evenly balanced
READ MORE: Tennis farce that's 'punished every player'
READ MORE: Titans star blasts 'weak' team after loss
ULTIMATE GUIDE: State of Origin Game 1
"It wasn't an easy week with the six guys missing from training but I think in the long run it will be fabulous for them and the club," Townsend told Wide World of Sports.
"Just for them to be part of the Origin experience, to mix with the best players in the game, to be part of the preparation, it will be priceless for these guys.
Chad Townsend believes North Queensland will benefit from its huge Origin representation. Getty
"None of them have been through anything like this and they will come through next Wednesday night as better players.
"The confidence and experience they will gain from playing on league's biggest stage will make them even more effective than they already are.
"They deserve to be selected and I'm excited for them.
"It's going to be a tough little period for us through Origin but hopefully they won't get hurt and they will reap the benefits of this for years to come."
The incredible stories behind State of Origin's one-game wonders
