JT staying put

Johnathan Thurston has quashed speculation about his future, confirming he’ll play on with North Queensland into the 2018 NRL season. But the superstar Queensland playmaker says this year’s State of Origin series will be has last, with the end-of-year World Cup tournament also his last hurrah in Australian colours. The Cowboys champion is off contract this year, but retirement or playing with a rival NRL club is not a consideration. ‘‘At this stage, it’ll be an extra year next year,’’ the 33-year-old Thurston told Fox Sports. ‘‘I’ve spoken to the club to let them know that I’m keen 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.’’