JT leaves attack sets to others

Stripping free of the pink singlet, Thurston then participated in selected attacking plays, which required the involvement of the four-time Dally M Medallist.

However, the champion halfback also played the role of bystander during a large majority of attacking sets.

Named on Tuesday by coach Paul Green, halfback Ray Thompson and fiveeighth Michael Morgan took over organising the Cowboys playbook, including the running of several attacking shots which suggested an intent to target the Sharks’ left-side.

Notably, over the course of the 55-minute session Thurston failed to test his damaged right shoulder by avoiding all contact drills.

And despite boasting a radar-like boot, Thurston also relinquished any form of goalkicking practice.

Winger Kyle Feldt was the replacement kicker.

If not for his never-say-die attitude, toughness and beaming smile, even a casual observer would have left Leichhardt feeling certain that the closest Thurston will get to the Sharks tonight and the Blues in 13 days is the grandstand.

And there are those close to Thurston who remain concerned that he remains at risk of missing Origin I and that at this stage of his recovery, lacks the strength in his shoulder to withstand 80 minutes of tackling.

Cronulla coach Shane Flanagan yesterday suggested the Sharks pack would target Thurston if he does play tonight.

“I think it would be a long shot for him to play, if the injury was diagnosed correctly,’’ Flanagan said.

“It’s only 10 days or so from that last game and if he’s any chance of playing Origin, I’ll be surprised if he does turn up (tonight).

“But if he does, we won’t treat him any different. He could expect a little (traffic) if he does turn up.

“But he’s a quality player and Paul Green is not going to turn him out and Johnathan Thurston isn’t going to play, if he’s not 100 per cent fit.”

“But you never know with Johnathan, he’s a tough bugger.’’