The North Queensland Toyota Cowboys suffered a huge blow when Te Maire Martin was sidelined indefinitely with a freak head injury early in the season.

After suffering from a variety of symptoms in late April, Martin was sent for testing, which revealed he had suffered a brain bleed.

Martin wouldn’t play again in 2019, but was able to return to light duties late in the season.

The 24-year-old was one of the Cowboys best through the opening seven rounds, splitting his time between five-eighth and fullback.

Martin opened the season with a brilliant performance, scoring a try and setting up another in a 24-12 victory over St George Illawarra.

2019 stats

Games: 7

Tries: 3

Try assists: 1

Average tackle breaks: 2

Average run metres: 97