Future Cowboys out to end North Queensland’s finals

Scott Bailey | September 12, 2026

Sione Katoa and Jesse Ramien are ready to plot their future team’s demise, as the Cronulla pair eye off the prospect of helping end North Queensland’s season before moving to Townsville 

Saturday night’s knockout clash will put the experienced Katoa in the most remarkable position of his career, trying to end the run of a club he will join in just a few months.

Ramien finds himself in a similar boat, albeit restricted to helping Cronulla’s off-field preparations only after undergoing pectoral surgery last month.

But there is nothing the pair want more than to arrive in Townsville for pre-season training, being able to claim a finals win over their next club.

“I want to play good for the Sharks, and then they can see what’s coming over,” Katoa said.

“It’s my last year and I think we can do something really special with the boys we have.”

For Ramien the situation is the same, even while the centre’s next game is set to be in Cowboys colours.

“This year I am Sharkies through and through,” Ramien said. 

“All my focus is on helping the boys, so hopefully they can go out there and do a job.”

Neither Ramien or Katoa have yet come to terms with the fact they are leaving the Sharks at year’s end.

Ramien has already played his last game for the club, while Katoa is well aware that any defeat will draw an end to his 11 years at the Sharks.

“I was emotional thinking about having played my last game at Shark Park. I’ve been here since I was 18 years old,” the winger said.

“My mentality for the rest of the year is I want to win it.”

Meanwhile, Ramien’s exit comes after he was told putting off surgery on his pec was not a realistic option last month.

The 29-year-old suffered the injury on the same weekend as Penrith captain Isaah Yeo, who has since returned for the Panthers after putting off an operation.

But Ramien said that was never really possibly for him.

“I spoke to the surgeon and he said it was ripped off completely, so there wasn’t really any chance,” Ramien said.

“He said you could rehab it, but it probably wouldn’t be until grand final week. And even then it’s a long shot, you’re not guaranteed. 

“And then you have to hope it doesn’t affect you after. So the best option was to book the surgery in and go from there.

“It’s been bittersweet. It’s unfortunate, injuries are part of the game, and I have absolutely loved my time at the club.”