Johnathan Thurston contract saga takes baby steps to decision

THERE is one more very good reason why NRL star Johnathan Thurston is likely to re-sign with the Cowboys. His first child is due next June.

THERE is one more very good reason why NRL star Johnathan Thurston is likely to re-sign with the Cowboys.

Thurston and fiancee Samantha Lynch are expecting their first child next year.

The baby is due in June during the State of Origin period, potentially creating headaches for the Maroons if the birth clashes with Game 1 on June 5 or Game 2 on June 26.

The Cowboys co-captain is off-contract at the end of 2013.

He has repeatedly expressed frustration over the collective bargaining agreement negotiations as players seek an increased salary cap and minimum wage payments.

Thurston has met Canterbury and Brisbane regarding a new deal for 2014 and beyond but it is unlikely he will sign any contract until the NRL's salary cap is settled.

Cowboys officials have maintained they were confident Thurston would stay and the arrival of his first child will increase their confidence.

A move to Sydney with a new-born late next year would be unlikely for Thurston and Lynch, especially considering how tight-knit the Cowboys team and Townsville community is.

Thurston told his Origin teammates about his fiancee's pregnancy two weeks ago, during the Maroons' year-end celebration in Kingscliff.

"We are both very excited," Thurston said. "It is something Sam and I are very much looking forward to.

"All our friends and family are really excited for us as well."

Cowboys coach Neil Henry, centre Brent Tate, fullback Matt Bowen and prop Matt Scott are also off-contract in 2014, while the Cowboys are hoping to extend the contract of centre Kane Linnett.

NSW prop James Tamou this week re-signed with the Cowboys until the end of 2016.

The Cowboys are putting together an enviable roster that Thurston would find difficult to walk away from.

That roster was one of the major reasons Tamou rejected Ricky Stuart and Parramatta to remain loyal to the club that made him a representative star for NSW and the Kangaroos.

Tate revealed this week he would make a decision on his contract in the new year.

Thurston, 29, proposed to Lynch on a bench in New York's Central Park last month, presenting her with a lavish diamond.

Their American holiday was thrown into chaos as Hurricane Sandy wrecked Manhattan.