Kevvie gives Thurston every chance to play
fuelling NSW coach Laurie Daley’s belief that the Maroons are playing mind games in the build-up to the series opener.
The Maroons’ naming of Thurston as 18th man was viewed as a concession he is at long odds of overcoming a shoulder injury to run onto Suncorp Stadium.
But Thurston has privately told Walters he wants to suit up for his 37th consecutive Origin game, presenting the Maroons coach with another selection headache.
Thurston ran with the Maroons squad during a light training run at Suncorp Stadium yesterday afternoon.
He remains an unlikely starter, but Smith added to the intrigue by claiming the Maroons champion would prove the doubters wrong.
“I give him (Thurston) every chance of playing to be honest,” Smith said.
“Even though he is named as 18th man, I’d like to think he will be doing everything he can to be there.
“I have played in three or four rep matches where ‘JT’ has been in doubt and he has got up every time. Kevvie has told us ... JT will be given until kick-off to be right.”
Walters said last night he would consider Thurston’s thoughts before making a final call. On Monday, Walters choked up as he spoke of the phone call he made to tell Storm ace Billy Slater he would be overlooked for Origin I.