Thurston has earned the right

According to the back page of today's Daily Telegraph, champion halfback Jonathan Thurston has sent shock waves through the Rugby League community with his declaration that he is considering switching to the 15-man game.

The article says that "Thurtson said he didn't share the same sense of lifetime loyalty to rugby league felt by Australian captain Darren Lockyer."

He is then quoted as saying "I could easily play rugby. I watch the Wallabies and a fair bit of it and I could certainly see myself playing the game ... I have to think about what's best for me, and if playing rugby is what's best for me, I'll take that option up."

Naturally, Thurston's talk of a defection has the fans riled up. How dare he, arguably the game's number one player, walk out on the sport that has given him everything?

Well quite easily, actually.

Passions aside, let's look at the issue objectively. Yes, Rugby League has been wonderful for Thurston. It has given him a fantastic career, limitless opportunities, a generous living and the honour of representing his state and country.

But Thurston has also been wonderful for Rugby League. He has repaid his debt by entertaining the fans. He has repaid his debt by helping to ensure Dairy Farmers Stadium is packed out every fortnight. He has repaid the faith of selectors at both the state and national levels with stellar performances for Queensland and Australia. He has inspired the younger generation of kids kicking footballs in parks across the eastern states to want to follow in his footsteps.

I certainly question Thurston's wisdom in wanting to leave a sport that is going from strength to strength every year for one that is in a shambles.

Rugby Union is a mess. The national team is a constant disappointment, our Super 14 teams aren't much better and consequently attendances and revenues are down. The administration seems clueless and even the messianic return of golden-boy administrator John O'Neill has failed to stop the rot.

But if Thurston wants to go there that's his choice.

Look at the positives. The amazingly talented Scott Prince will finally be able to step out of the shadow of being Thurston's understudy and get his chance to really shine. Up in Townsville the Cowboys will have money freed up to build a team, rather than assembling ad-hoc parts around the Thurston engine - look at what the Bulldogs were able to achieve with money left over after Sonny Bill Williams' departure. And Thurston himself will enjoy the grace of bowing out of the 13-man game while still on top.

So before everyone crucifies him for speaking openly about what is on his mind in regard to the future, remember the following: Thurston has given plenty back to Rugby League. He is also being honest now instead of fleeing without notice ala Sonny Bill Williams. And like all of us, he has a future to think about. At 26 he only has another 6 or so years to set himself up for that future.

Of course I'd love for him to stay in our game. But if he chooses to go I'll thank him for the memories and wish him well.

Gaw out.