Latrell Mitchell Ends Media Ban, Provides Injury Update
"South Sydney is where it's at."
Mitchell broke his 18-month media silence on Tuesday, holding a press conference amid significant developments regarding his injury status and the Rabbitohs' player announcements.
Injury Status and Club Communication
Mitchell sustained a bulging disc in his spine during a match against the Newcastle Knights the previous week. He has been withdrawn from the team scheduled to face the Cronulla Sharks this weekend.
Rabbitohs coach Wayne Bennett expressed dissatisfaction with the NRL's handling of the injury announcement. The NRL's official website reported Mitchell's unavailability before the Rabbitohs made their own announcement. Bennett stated a staff member was told by the NRL not to release information until a later time, but the information was published prematurely. Bennett said the club should have the prerogative to announce player changes.
Mitchell will miss at least one game. Bennett indicated Mitchell may also be absent for next weekend's Magic Round against the Dolphins. Bennett confirmed Mitchell is expected to be fit for the State of Origin opener on May 27.
Media Ban and Press Conference
Mitchell broke his media silence to celebrate teammate Campbell Graham's 150th NRL game. He had not spoken publicly about his sport or career since the 2024 season.
He declined to discuss his own media ban, contract speculation regarding the future PNG team, or the 2024 Dubbo incident involving white powder. Mitchell credited his improved form this season to not speaking to the media. He said his maturation has involved focusing on family and being a role model for his children.
Playing Position and Team Role
Mitchell has switched from fullback to centre for the 2026 season, a position where he won two premierships with the Sydney Roosters. He stated he approached coach Bennett to be a team player and is willing to play any position.
When asked about interest from the PNG Chiefs, Mitchell replied "South Sydney is where it's at." Mitchell endorsed Graham as a potential New South Wales Origin debutant but stated he has not spoken to NSW coach Laurie Daley. Mitchell is considered a likely selection for the NSW State of Origin team.
Season Performance
In eight games this season, Mitchell has scored 11 tries, made 52 tackle busts, 17 offloads, and 10 linebreaks.
Background
Mitchell had not spoken to the media for 18 months following two controversies: a photograph of him leaning over a table with white powder in a Dubbo motel, and an expletive-laden post-match interview on Triple M. He was fined by the club and the NRL and served a one-match suspension for the Dubbo incident.
Commentators on the NRL 360 program offered varying observations:
Braith Anasta: "His form has been off the charts and it's good to hear from him again."
Gorden Tallis: "It's great that he's talking to the South Sydney fans, especially the way they're playing."
Dave Riccio: "It's important our best talent do speak to the media and to the fans," noting Mitchell received "a lot of social media crap."
Paul Crawley: Mitchell may have been "burnt by his own honesty" earlier in his career and noted Mitchell spoke to Bennett about breaking the ice.