Unlike Greg Inglis’s fairytale run with the Rabbitohs, Latrell Mitchell is finding the responsibility of the No. 1 jersey to be a heavy burden. Arriving at Redfern overweight, plagued by injuries, and surrounded by negative headlines, Mitchell carried the hopes of South Sydney on his shoulders. A champion, a representative player at state and national levels, and a talisman in the Indigenous community, Mitchell was seen as the key to ushering in a golden era for the Rabbitohs.
Debuting as a teenager and winning premierships as a centre, Mitchell’s true destiny was believed to be as a fullback, the position reserved for rugby league’s superstars. Greg Inglis, who arrived at Souths in 2011 and shifted to fullback in 2012, led the team to a premiership in 2014, ending a 43-year drought. Fans hoped Mitchell would replicate Inglis’s success.
However, the 2024 season has been a nightmare for the Rabbitohs, who sit at the bottom of the NRL ladder with a 1-4 record. Coach Jason Demetriou’s job is on the line, and Mitchell is once again absent, suspended on a dangerous contact charge. This dismal start is reminiscent of the club’s darkest days, with internal turmoil and lackluster performances casting a shadow over their season.
Mitchell’s time at Souths has been marked by inconsistency and absences. Injuries and suspensions have limited him to fewer games and diminished his impact compared to his tenure at the Roosters. His performance stats reflect this downturn, with fewer games played and tries scored.
Adding to the turmoil, Mitchell’s behavior on the field has drawn criticism and disciplinary actions, while rumors of unrest within the team have emerged. Allegations of favoritism towards Mitchell have led to significant internal strife, including the departure of club legend Sam Burgess as assistant coach.
In a desperate move, Demetriou has turned to youth, giving local junior Jye Gray the No. 1 jersey in hopes of turning the season around. As Mitchell pledges to stay and support his team, his legacy hangs in the balance. At 26, with nine seasons under his belt, it’s time for Mitchell to reflect deeply on his role and the responsibilities that come with being the Rabbitohs’ star player.
