Queensland State of Origin Coach Kevin Walters says legendary playmaker Johnathan Thurston is little chance of playing his 37th consecutive Origin game on May 31st.

“I believe it’s very unlikely that he’ll play but we’ll give him the chance to prove his fitness throughout the week,” Walters said on Sky Sports’ Big Sports Breakfast over the weekend.

“I don’t think he’ll be fit enough with his shoulder. We’ve got to keep in mind that this is game one of a three-game series.

“If he does get out there and sneak on for game one and re-injure it, some long-term damage could be done there and he could miss the remaining games of the season.

“We’ve got to be respectful of the Cowboys as well and their position that they’re in. Obviously he is their player and we’ve got to be respectful of their requirements of him as well.”

Anthony Milford is expected to lace up the boots as Thurston’s replacement.