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It appears certain the Blues will have a new playmaking combination in the series decider in Sydney after Nathan Cleary failed to finish the clash in Perth on Sunday due to an ankle injury.
Pearce was set to be selected for game two, only to pull out with a hip injury, with James Maloney getting the nod and going on to carve up the Maroons.
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The in-form Newcastle star is likely to be in the frame once again provided he gets through Saturday’s clash with Brisbane unscathed, but Blues coach Brad Fittler also has the likes of Jack Wighton and Wade Graham to consider after impressive performances at Optus Stadium.
Pearce hasn’t played Origin football since 2017 and has failed to win a series which prompted Thurston’s sledge that he: “should probably get a photo with Wally’s statue (outside Suncorp Stadium) because that’s the closest he was going to get to holding the shield”.
But the Maroons champion believes he’s seen enough good form from Pearce to make an Origin comeback alongside Maloney — at five-eighth.
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“I think you’d play Pearce and six and Jimmy at seven,” Thurston told Channel 9’s 100% Footy.
“The way that (Maloney) controlled the game last night was pure class.
“He’s experienced, he’s a big game player, premierships, Origins. He knows how to get the job done.
“I think that’ll take a lot of the pressure off Pearce. I think he’s pretty scarred … he’s been the scapegoat for so many years. It was very unfair.
“He’s been in fine form and if I pick him, I’d pick him at six.”
Thurston’s “scarred” comment wasn’t missed by ex-NSW skipper Paul Gallen who was also on the receiving end of many losses at the hands of the all-conquering Queenslanders.
“Don’t feel sorry for him now,” Gallen fired back.
“It was all because of you and your mates! Greatest Queensland team ever.”