Johnathan Thurston took pressure off Queensland's Origin selectors as he returned to dominant form in North Queensland's 34-10 battering of Cronulla in Adelaide.

The Test halfback found the sort of space and territory he relishes and had a hand in virtually all the Cowboys' six tries while also slotting five of six conversions against the hapless Sharks.

"I think so," Thurston said happily when asked if it was his best performance of the year.

"Been copping it from all angles but it's good to come out and have a good team win."

Cowboys captain Thurston had struggled to stamp his brilliance during the Cowboys 1-4 start to the season, raising yet again the possibility Gold Coast skipper Scott Prince could press him for the Queensland Origin halfback berth.

After crushing the Sharks at Hindmarsh Stadium Thurston was quick praise the forwards who laid the platform for him, notably Matt Scott, Shane Tronc and Antonio Kafusi.

"The big boys started rolling forward, there was a few offloads there and our ball players played off the back of it," said Thurston.

"Matty Scott, Shane Tronc and Fus (Antonio Kafusi) were outstanding up front and that's what we require from them every week."

New Cowboys coach Neil Henry was clearly relieved to have his team's attack firing at last.

"The media like running with themes and a consistent theme over the last few years has been the battle between Johnathan Thurston and Scott Prince," he said.

"It's a good position for the Queensland side to be in, there's no doubt they're both outstanding players, but I think the theme jumped on is about our attack.

"Our team hasn't been attacking well, today we clicked a little better, but the onus is on everyone to put their hand up - the halves are under constant scrutiny anyway.

"Hopefully it'll alleviate a bit of media scrutiny about who's doing what on the field, it's a good win for the boys and we'll enjoy it."

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