A multi-million dollar off-season shopping spree snared Gold Coast some of the NRL’s biggest names – but it was two largely unknown players who had coach John Cartwright buzzing on Tuesday.

Prized recruits Jamal Idris, Luke Douglas and Nate Myles all took pride of place in an 18-strong Titans squad named by Cartwright for Saturday night’s season opener against North Queensland in Townsville.

However, lesser lights Dominique Peyroux and Ben Ridge were the names on Cartwright’s lips ahead of round one.

Hardly pining over the loss of another recruit in Beau Champion (finger), Cartwright talked up 103kg, 185cm ex-Cook Islands rep Peyroux as Idris’ centre partner against the Cowboys.

“It’s funny how opportunities can open up for you,” Cartwright said of the 23-year-old whose Titans website profile claims he is still working part-time as a removalist.

“He got a taste of first grade last year and got a new contract with the club and now he’s starting.

“He is one guy who really excites as a coach.

“He’s fearless, he takes the ball and runs with it, and the other players feed off him.”

Backrower Ridge, 22, was named on an extended bench but Cartwright would not be surprised if the former Australian Schoolboy rep was in the starting side soon.

“There were a few you would have no problem putting there (but) physically he is as strong as anyone and I think as the year goes on he will put pressure on for a starting spot,” he said.

“I rate him very highly.

“He’s in that age bracket where he has a bit of confidence. I really think he is a player of the future.”

Cartwright named Kayne Lawton as his starting hooker but also included Matt Srama on the bench, hinting that they could share No.9 duties against North Queensland.

“It’s nice to have those two hookers – I think they will surprise a lot of people,” he said.

Captain Scott Prince copped the brunt of criticism last season after the Titans finished with their first wooden spoon.

But Cartwright expected the cynics to change their tune in 2012.

Prince will be paired with yet another new five-eighth in Jordan Rankin this weekend.

But Cartwright believed Prince’s new attitude – rather than halves partner – would help him bounce back to his best this season.

“Without doubt (he is unfairly criticised) but it is the same with any side that is losing – you look to the guy with the most profile,” he said.

“But Scott is in the top two or three halfbacks in the game, you don’t lose that overnight.

“And it’s a new season, he’s got new players around him. He’s got a fresh approach.

“He’s as keen as I have seen him.”