A serious hand injury robbed speedy fullback Carlin Anderson of a huge chunk of his maiden season with the North Queensland Toyota Cowboys in 2018.

The 22-year-old tore a hand tendon playing for Cowboys feeder club the Townsville Blackhawks in Round 5 and would not return until Round 17.

Prior to his injury, Anderson had started the season in strong form. The speedster scored 20 points, made up of a try and eight goals, in the Blackhawks' season-opening 56-12 victory over Mackay.

With another season to run on his Cowboys contract, Anderson will be determined to stay fit and produce a breakout campaign in 2019.

Stats (Queensland Cup)

Games: 11

Tries: 5

Goals: 13

Average runs: 11

Average running metres: 104

Tackle breaks: 24