LONDON: North Queensland's "limited pre-season" presents a potential disadvantage as they attempt to become the first side in two decades to successfully defend a premiership, according to co-captain Matt Scott.

The Cowboys only managed edge out feeder team Townsville Blackhawks 18-16 at Jack Manski Oval in Townsville last Thursday night before flying out for Sunday's World Club Challenge against Leeds.

Speaking to Fairfax Media in London, prop Scott said winning the premiership had some impact on how the Cowboys prepared for 2016.

"We've had a limited pre-season because of going all the way last year," he said.

"It might be a slight disadvantage but the fact we've got the same 17 is going to help. We don't need to start from scratch again, I suppose, Training's been pretty good.

"We would have liked to trial a little bit better against the Blackhawks but hopefully we can get back into the swing of things over here against Leeds."

Brisbane won the Super League competition in 1997 and the inaugural NRL premiership in 1998 – the last back-to-back titles in top flight Australian rugby league. In the same competition, it hasn't happened since 1992-93.

"We've talked about it but it's not something that's consumed us. It's not really at the forefront of our mind," Scott said.

"We know that this is the start of a new year and there's going to be new challenges. We know we've got to go to another level to compete in the competition again.

"The vibe I'm getting from the group is good and positive, No one's really letting the premiership last year affect how we prepare this year."

The Cowboys are basing themselves in London for much of the week, with Scott, Johnathan Thurston and coach Paul Green to attend the tournament launch in Manchester on Monday.

A media conference has been called for Thursday, at which Wayne Bennett will address his appointment as England coach.

While many NRL players seen the World Club Series as a trial, Scott said: "It definitely feels like there's something on the line. It's a great opportunity to come over and play the best Super League has to offer.

"For us there's a trophy on the line and also a bit of pride.

"It's right up there. Personally, I'm not thinking of it as a trial.

"It would definitely be a great achievement and have pride of place in the trophy cabinet."