Johnathan Thurston, a legendary figure for the North Queensland Cowboys and a current analyst for Nine, recently reflected on a pivotal moment following the 2015 NRL Grand Final. This match is particularly memorable due to Ben Hunt’s unfortunate drop of the kick-off, a blunder that remains a topic of discussion even a decade later. Hunt, who will face the Cowboys again as he returns to the Broncos for the first time since that game, received some heartfelt words from Thurston in the aftermath of the final.
In an interview with Triple M, Thurston recounted the message he shared with Hunt on the field after the match concluded. He assured Hunt that the Broncos wouldn’t have made it to that Grand Final without his significant contributions throughout the season. “I told him to keep his head high; they wouldn’t have been in that position without him,” Thurston recalled, praising Hunt’s exceptional performance that year.
Thurston also reminisced about a standout moment in Hunt’s career: his impressive performance in the State of Origin. “Who could forget him taking that chip kick and running 60 metres downfield? That’s one of my fondest memories,” he said, celebrating Hunt’s ability to seize pivotal opportunities on the field.
Despite the ongoing scrutiny surrounding Hunt’s past mistakes, Thurston highlighted the qualities that define him beyond that singular event. He described Hunt as an “ultimate competitor” and a “great teammate,” noting his character as a devoted husband and family man. Thurston conveyed confidence in Hunt’s ability to move forward, stating, “He’s had an outstanding career and has a couple of years left in him; I think the Broncos will have a successful year this season.”
As the anniversary of the 2015 Grand Final approaches, Thurston’s words serve as a reminder of resilience and camaraderie in the face of adversity, emphasising the importance of recognising individual contributions to team success.