Rugby league legend and proud Indigenous All Stars captain Johnathan Thurston says representing his people inspires the next generation to do the same.

Thurston however admits that the cluttered NRL pre-season needs to be addressed.

“It’s a huge honour to play in it and to pull that jersey on,” Thurston told ESPN.

“We’re representing our culture that has endured much pain since the arrival of the First Fleet, and playing in this game inspires the next generation to want to play in it.

“While this game is very important socially, both on and off the field, I think we can have a chat about the pre-season schedule and making sure the players aren’t burnt out before the start of the competition.”

The All stars game won’t be played in 2018 due to the World Cup being staged later this season.