LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
"It's a tough situation for Corey, but in rugby league, nobody owns the jumper.
It's all about performance and form," Ritchie continued.
Oates, who has been a mainstay in the Broncos side for years, now finds himself on the outer looking in, with speculation mounting about his future at the club.
Former Kangaroos coach Mal Meninga weighed in on the debate, saying Oates needs to "earn" his spot back in the team through hard work and determination.
"In rugby league, you're only as good as your last game.
Corey needs to show Kevin Walters that he deserves to be in that starting lineup," Meninga said.
Oates will need to dig deep and prove his worth if he wants to reclaim his spot in the Broncos side, with competition for spots heating up ahead of the upcoming season.
As the saying goes, in rugby league, there are no guarantees.
Oates will need to fight tooth and nail to earn his place back in the team and show that he still has what it takes to compete at the highest level.