Mal Meninga reveals Johnathan Thurston will play in tonight's Origin clash

QUEENSLAND coach Mal Meninga confirms star five-eighth Johnathan Thurston will be a definite starter in tonight's State of Origin series opener.

QUEENSLAND coach Mal Meninga has confirmed star five-eighth Johnathan Thurston will be a definite starter in tonight's State of Origin series opener against the Blues at Sydney's ANZ Stadium.

Big Mal, in an exclusive matchday interview, says Thurston is over the effects of a virus that were rumoured to have him in danger of missing tonight's clash with NSW as the Maroons begin the chase for eight straight series wins.

Big Mal, the record-breaking boss of Queensland's greatest era, also revealed his thoughts on possible late changes to the Queensland starting team, what he is expecting from the Blues under new coach Laurie Daley, and why the Maroons have focused heavily on history in the lead-up to tonight's showdown.

Listen to our exclusive interview: click play on the video player above.

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