Latrell Mitchell’s dominant performance at centre for NSW won’t be enough to sway the Rabbitohs from moving the superstar away from his usual position at fullback.
The 27-year-old was at his scintillating best for the Blues in game two, causing havoc against the Maroons in his first State of Origin appearance since 2021.
Mitchell went home to Taree after helping his state to a crucial victory, freshening himself up in a bid to help South Sydney as they inch towards an unlikely finals berth.
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Speaking to media on Wednesday morning ahead of the round 18 clash against the Eels, interim coach Ben Hornby welcomed the return of the Bunnies’ marquee man in Mitchell, as well as inspirational captain Cameron Murray.
Latrell Mitchell in action for the Rabbitohs this season. Getty
“It definitely gives him an energy boost going home,” Hornby said.
“They are great players, so it’s great to have them back. They are great around our group and great leaders as well. They bring that excitement to the team and they know the team has been playing well, so it just adds to that.
“Most of our guys had the week off, so most of us are refreshed and ready to go.”
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As for the talk of moving Mitchell to the centres in clubland and keeping rookie speedster Jye Gray in the No.1 jumper, Hornby had quite a definitive response.
“He’s our best fullback and he’s most beneficial to us at fullback,” the coach said.
“He touches the ball more there and has more impact on our defence there. At the moment, he’s our fullback.
“Jye did a great job … that’s great for us to have those guys ready to go.”
Pint-sized fullback Jye Gray has been impressive in his limited NRL appearances. Getty
Mitchell’s selection at fullback for Souths isn’t the only contentious call from Hornby, with skipper Murray being shifted to the edge to accommodate Keaon Koloamatangi, despite starting at lock for the Blues in their 38-18 win over Queensland.
Hornby claims the decision was made in a bid to keep the cohesion at Redfern, with the side and Koloamatangi in particular in the midst of a purple patch of form.
“Our forward pack has been really good and it’s the least disruptions for us,” he said.
“Cam has got another Origin to go, so we’re just looking at limiting the changes we have to make to our team until Origin is over.”
South Sydney sit on 16 points, placing them two wins behind the eighth-placed Dragons, but still have two byes in hand for the season.