LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Rugby League rockstar Latrell Mitchell finds himself at the center of a fresh controversy surrounding Souths' push to have his suspension served in 2024, throwing the rugby world into a tizzy.
It was initially believed that the Rabbitohs fullback would have to sit out games next season, but now, opinions are split among top NRL experts.
The bombshell revelation that Souths and the Rugby League Players Association are gunning for Mitchell to serve his suspension this year has sparked a fierce debate.
Despite the Rabbitohs' acknowledgment that Mitchell won't see the field again in 2024, reports suggest that he may have to wait until the opening round in 2025 to serve his one-game ban for the controversial 'white powder' photo.
Interim Souths coach Ben Hornby has conceded that Mitchell's season is effectively over due to a lingering foot injury and the fallout from the photo scandal.
It seemed logical that the suspension would be deferred to the following year.
However, according to the Daily Telegraph, Souths and the RLPA are lobbying for Mitchell to face the music sooner rather than later.
RLPA boss Clint Newton insists that NRL regulations dictate suspensions should take effect immediately.
Quoting section 22 (4) of the NRL's code, Newton emphasized the rule stipulating that when a player's registration is suspended or revoked, it should happen without delay.
As the rugby world waits in anticipation, the outcome of this saga could have far-reaching implications for Mitchell and the game as a whole.