Johnathan Thurston could still play for the Kangaroos against the Kiwis even if he's ruled out of North Queensland's NRL clash against Parramatta on Friday, says Australia coach Mal Meninga.
Johnathan Thurston could still play for the Kangaroos against the Kiwis even if he's ruled out of North Queensland's NRL clash against Parramatta on Friday, says Australia coach Mal Meninga.
Thurston's been named in the 20-strong Kangaroos squad to play New Zealand on Friday week, despite missing the past two games for the Cowboys with a calf injury.
Meninga says even if Thurston doesn't play on Friday he will join the Kangaroos and will undergo a medical test over the weekend.
Thurston is no certainty to play against the Eels this week despite being included in an extended Cowboys squad; while James Maloney is on standby for the Test.
"(Thurston) doesn't have to play that game on the weekend. He's a pretty experienced player," Meninga said.
Jonathan Thurston Photo: Photosport
"Knowing John, he'll want to play in the Test match, if fully fit.
"He'll come in to camp and through our protocols, he'll go through a medical and we'll make some decisions around him on the Sunday.
"It's one of the reasons James Maloney is named as 19th man as well, just in case."
Meninga said because of the five-day preparation for the Test match, it was important to remain loyal to the team that defeated the Kiwis in the Four Nations final last year.
The Kangaroos will have just two training sessions during the week.
"Not only do these players have established combinations with each other, but they are also well aware of our values," Meninga said.
Captain Cameron Smith will become just the second player to reach 50 Tests for Australia - behind only Darren Lockyer, who made 59 appearances.
Australia: Darius Boyd, Blake Ferguson, Josh Dugan, Will Chambers, Valentine Holmes, Johnathan Thurston, Cooper Cronk, Aaron Woods, Cameron Smith (capt), David Klemmer, Boyd Cordner, Matt Gillett, Trent Merrin. Reserves: Michael Morgan, Josh Papalii, Tyson Frizell, Sam Thaiday. Shannon Boyd (18th man), James Maloney (19th man), Justin O'Neill (20th man).
