Maroons five-eighth Johnathan Thurston is tired but also hungry for more Origin success

JOHNATHAN Thurston has reassured Queensland fans he will put the weariness of his demanding campaign behind him to be at his best for Origin II.

Johnathan Thurston

MAROONS five-eighth Johnathan Thurston has reassured Queensland fans he will put the weariness of his recent demanding campaign behind him to be at his best for Wednesday's Origin showdown in Sydney.

Thurston admitted yesterday having to play three games in nine days before the Origin camp had taken its toll, but he had been revitalised by getting back with the Queensland "family" at Coolum.

Former NSW centre Mark Gasnier commented recently that Thurston looked a tired player, while several media reports concentrated on the fact he has not scored a try in 12 games for the Cowboys this year.

In his last hit-out for the Cowboys against the Titans, the Cowboys dominated possession and territory early but could not find a way through despite the best efforts of Thurston and halves partner Ray Thompson.

Thurston remains third on the list of top try assists with 15, trailing only Queensland halves partner Cooper Cronk (20 for the Melbourne Storm) and Wests Tigers star Benji Marshall (19). Thurston is also joint leader in the top line-break assists category with Cronk (14), and is up there with the best support players in the game.

He set up two tries in Origin I with astute passes, but maybe next Wednesday he will break his try drought.

"I think everyone is feeling a bit weary at this time of the year," Thurston said.

"It's a tough period for the rep players, having to back up for their clubs 48 hours after Origin, and then to travel and play three games in nine days.

"I've said it before, it's a joke, but that's the world we live in. There's no point whingeing about it.

"It's always enjoyable being in camp with the boys. There's a great vibe and great energy. I've been preparing the best I can to do a good job on Wednesday."

Thurston, who started his career in the under-19s at the Bulldogs in Sydney, said having Bulldogs sensation Ben Barba in camp as 18th man had lifted everyone's spirits, given his bubbly nature and incredible attacking skills.

Thurston made his Origin debut in 2005 after he had joined the Cowboys. But the year before he had been part of the Queensland Origin Emerging Squad and before that had played Maroons under-19s.

"Benny's form has been great," Thurston said.

"He used to lack a bit of defence in his game but he's certainly found that under (coach) Des Hasler and seems to be enjoying his football, and to have him in camp is good for everyone concerned.

"I've always been grateful for the fact the Dogs gave me the chance to play NRL footy.

"Those emerging Origin camps are great because you know they have you in mind and that gives you confidence in yourself that you are being scouted for future Origin prospects," he said.