2014 Four Nations: Australia's Johnathan Thurston to miss out with shoulder injury
Thursday 9 October 2014 00:24, UK
Half-back Johnathan Thurston is the latest player to be ruled out of Australia's plans for the Four Nations.
North Queensland Cowboys star Thurston, who won the NRL's highest individual honour - the Dally M Medal - for the third time this season will miss the competition due to a shoulder injury.
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He joins Billy Slater, Darius Boyd, Brett Morris, Matt Scott, Nate Myles, Paul Gallen and James Tamou as confirmed withdrawals due to injury, illness or suspension.
Justin Hodges, Josh Dugan, Trent Merrin, Will Hopoate and Andrew Fifita also withdrew after being named in Australia's intital squad.
"It was a really difficult decision to have to make but in the end, the doctor really took it out of my hands when I saw him yesterday," Thurston said.
"You never want to miss playing rep footy, and I'm very proud of my record in that area, but this time there's no other option."
Tim Sheens will name his final squad for the tournament on Monday with Australia starting their campaign against old rivals New Zealand in Brisbane on October 25.
