Johnathan Thurston: How rugby star daughter’s doll captivated Australia

Sydney : A dark-skinned doll brought on to the pitch at the end of the Australian Rugby League final has become the talking point of the game.The doll was carried by the daughter of Johnathan Thurston, captain of the winning team, North Queensland Cowboys.Thurston is an indigenous Australian, as was, for the first time in the league’s history, his counterpart, Justin Hodges of the Brisbane Broncos.
It has been seen by many as a moment of inclusion and diversity.Australian sport, in particular Aussie Rules football, has been marred by racism against indigenous players.The country has also seen heated discussion on whether it should recognise indigenous people in its constitution, and repeal clauses that prevent people of a certain race from voting and allow laws to be made based on race.Author Melanie Prewett: Why Australian indigenous representation matters to children
‘Best image of the game’
The match was the first time two Queensland teams had faced each other in the final.Thurston also kicked the winning goal on Sunday which sent North Queensland to their 17-16 victory in extra time.Australians on social media applauded the images of the emotional captain sitting on the pitch with two-year-old Frankie – wearing a Cowboys jersey – and her doll.