Thurston keen to get in Israel's ear
Queensland playmaker Johnathan Thurston will make a beeline for Israel Folau, hoping to convince the classy young three-quarter to remain in rugby league when the Maroons enter State of Origin camp on Tuesday.
Having himself just re-committed his future to the 13-a-side game, Thurston knows precisely what Folau is going through as he weighs up his considerable options.
Thurston, 27, last week turned down a massive deal to switch to rugby union with Biarritz in France and will be advising Folau to think long-term as he considers the money being offered by rival codes.
The Greater Western Sydney AFL team reportedly dangled $1 million-a-season carrot in front of Folau, while it's believed he could earn $600,000 a year playing rugby for the Melbourne Rebels and potentially the Wallabies.
Thurston, though, believes sticking with rugby league would be a wise decision for his Maroons and former Kangaroos teammate.
"Whatever he decides on with his future, good luck to him," said Thurston on Monday, confirming he wanted to talk to the youngster.
"I'm coming to the back end of my career and it was about me re-signing for life after footy.
"He's only 21, I think, so he's got a lot ahead of him.
"But I just think if he re-signs and stays in the NRL, the doors that would open for him for life after footy would be endless and I don't think in other codes he would get that."
Folau's future has been the subject of intense speculation for a fortnight, after he failed to take up the option to remain with the Brisbane Broncos for the 2011 and 2012 NRL seasons.
Late last week, the Broncos said they were in the midst of formulating a new offer to put to the powerhouse winger-centre.
After failing to lure veteran Civoniceva back to the fold, the club's offer to Folau could be upgraded give constant rumours that Lagi Setu has already done a deal with the Roosters and that Ashton Sims may not be re-signed.
Folau's four tries in Brisbane's last two wins over Melbourne and the Gold Coast Titans are also believed to have the young giant wavering a little about leaving rugby league.
Being involved in another Origin campaign - especially if Queensland win a fifth consecutive series - could further sway his final decision with the club prepared to give him as much time as he needs to make up his mind.
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