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Thurston reveals rep future

North Queensland Cowboys star Johnathan Thurston will quit representative footy after the 2017 season.

The 33-year-old has decided to have one more shot at glory with Queensland and Australia before settling into life as a veteran player.

The 2017 Rugby League World Cup runs from October to December in Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea.

Out of contract at the end of the year, Thurston expects to re-sign with the Cowboys on a one-year deal in the coming months.

"At this stage it'll be an extra year next year," he told Fox Sports.

Johnathan Thurston has dominated State of Origin for Queensland. Pic: Getty
Johnathan Thurston has dominated State of Origin for Queensland. Pic: Getty

"I've spoken to the club to let them know that I'm keen to go again but I've also spoken to Mal, letting him know that this will be my last year of rep footy. My goal is to warrant selection in the World Cup and make sure I make that squad.

"The Cowboys and the representative staff are well aware of where my situation is that. The Cowboys have been great to me on and off the field.

"If I get through this year well, I'd like to put all my focus into the Cowboys."

Thurston is part of a group of veteran Maroons who will hang up the representative boots in the coming years.

He made his Origin debut in 2005, two years after hooker Cameron Smith and two years before halves partner Cooper Cronk.

Corey Parker retired from the game altogether at the end of the 2016 season.

Nate Myles, Greg Inglis, Matt Scott and Sam Thaiday are all now into their 30s.

"It'll be a little bit emotional. I've been involved in that team for a long time. I'm comfortable with where I'm at with the decision," he said.

Thurston played every game of Queensland's remarkable eight-year winning run over New South Wales as part of his 36-game Origin career that also includes the 2015 and 2016 series victories.

The halfback also took part in the Kangaroos' Four Nations triumph late last year.