NRL: Thurston re-signs with Cowboys as Gasnier mulls comeback

Johnathan Thurston is expected to sign a new three-year deal with the Cowboys. Photo / Getty Images

SYDNEY - Test halfback Johnathan Thurston has confirmed he will stay with the North Queensland Cowboys for another three years, at last delivering the NRL some good news.

Thurston knocked back a lucrative offer from French rugby union club Biarritz to stay in rugby league with the Cowboys on a deal boosted by third party sponsorships and reportedly worth A$2 million ($2.52 million).

The 27-year-old's decision comes amidst the Melbourne Storm salary cap drama, suggestions of a player revolt and the likelihood former test centre Israel Folau will jump codes and join the Melbourne Rebels.

It also comes after a report another former Kangaroos centre, Mark Gasnier, is poised to turn his back on union and return to the NRL.

Sydney's Daily Telegraph said Gasnier is keen to return to the NRL before the June 30 deadline for signing players this season.

Thurston, considered by many to be the best player in the game, has played 16 tests and 15 State of Origin games for Queensland.

He joined the Cowboys in 2005 after three seasons with the Bulldogs.

"This contract I wanted to set me up for life after footy and we've got a couple of things in place now that will certainly do that for me and I'm just happy to re-sign with the club," Thurston said today.

Asked how close he was to switching codes, he said: "I just wanted to obviously see my value ... in union and overseas.

"All the advice that I've been given from my parents and my manager and close friends' advice has been just stay in league and I'm very happy.

"Obviously the money was more to sign with union but for life after footy, from what advice I've been given, rugby league will certainly help me in that way."

Thurston said he hoped to be financially secure after football and also to set up a foundation.

- AAP