NRL legend Johnathan Thurston will be available for just one more State of Origin series, confirming that 2017 is his last year in a maroon jersey.
The 33-year-old is considered the greatest NRL player of all time and has made 36 appearances for Queensland since his debut in 2005.
Despite being off-contract with the North Queensland Cowboys this year, he intends to stay on.
“At this stage, it’ll be an extra year next year,” Thurston said.
“I’ve spoken to the club to let them know that I’m been to go again. But I’ve also spoken to (Australian coach) Mal (Meninga), letting him know that this will be my last year of rep footy.”
The 2017 World Cup [Oct-Dec] will also be his last hurrah in an Australian jersey.
Queensland has won nine of the last 10 State of Origin series, with the Blues’ coming out on top in 2014.
Thurston was the only player to play all 24 the games during Queensland’s eight-year State of Origin winning streak between 2006 and 2014. He also has the most points in the event’s history.
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