LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
In a twist of fate that would make even the most seasoned footy fan do a double-take, Latrell Mitchell finds himself sidelined until 2025 as the Rabbitohs ponder their next move against the NRL.
The drama unfolded when the NRL threw down the gauntlet, demanding an independent fitness test for the star fullback from Souths - a move that has left the club scrambling for options.
The league's decision to bench Mitchell until the distant future has set the stage for a potential legal showdown between the Rabbitohs and the powers that be.
The NRL's insistence on a fitness assessment to determine Mitchell's eligibility to face off against the Roosters on Friday night has raised eyebrows and tempers alike.
Despite Souths' best efforts to plead their case, the NRL stood firm, declaring that Mitchell's suspension will have to wait until the 2025 season kicks off.
The Rabbitohs' failure to meet the league's demands for timely information has left Mitchell benched for the time being, with no end in sight.
"The NRL has laid down the law to the South Sydney Rabbitohs, putting a halt to Latrell Mitchell's round 27 action," a spokesperson for the league stated.
"After a thorough review of the situation and multiple requests for clarification on Mitchell's fitness status, it has been determined that he will have to wait until 2025 to serve his suspension."
As the dust settles on this latest chapter in the ongoing saga, one thing is clear - the drama on and off the field in the world of Rugby League shows no signs of slowing down.
Time will tell how the Rabbitohs and the NRL navigate this latest obstacle, but one thing is certain - the game must go on, with or without its star players.