The Maroons headed off a potential flashpoint with Broncos coach Wayne Bennett when they confirmed on Thursday morning that Thurston - who hasn't missed a game in the last 12 series - would not play in the Origin opener next Wednesday despite being named as 18th man.

Anthony Milford will make his Queensland debut, although it's yet to be confirmed whether it will be in the run-on side or from the bench paving the way for Michael Morgan to start.

"I'm devastated I won't be playing next week, but the call needed to be made and it's the right decision for the team," Thurston said.

Bennett had threatened to lodge a formal complaint with the Queensland Rugby League over the handling of Milford, who he wanted to play for the depleted Broncos against the Warriors on Saturday evening if Thurston was to make an 11th-hour recovery.

But the issue is dead and buried with Milford to earn his first start for Kevin Walters' side.

"It shows a lot about Johnathan's character, and what this team means to him, that he's prepared to move on quickly and get behind Anthony, myself and the rest of the team during such a tough period," Walters said.

"We knew Johnathan was going to be up against it, but because he has been such a great player for us over many years, we strongly believed he deserved to have that chance to prove his fitness."

Jarrod Wallace has been added to the squad as 18th man.