South Sydney Rabbitohs' standout centre, Latrell Mitchell, has announced he will not participate in Game 1 of the 2026 State of Origin series.
On Friday night, Mitchell fought through a back injury during his comeback for the Rabbitohs, but it was evident that he was struggling during the game's final moments.
He was taken off the field with less than ten minutes remaining. Although there were hopes he would be fit for Origin following a tailored training regimen, Mitchell made the decision to prioritize his teammates and stepped back from selection.
"NSW Rugby League officials can confirm that South Sydney Rabbitohs centre Latrell Mitchell contacted Westpac NSW Blues coach Laurie Daley today to rule himself out of contention for Game One of the 2026 Ampol State of Origin Series," stated the NSWRL.
"Mitchell advised Daley and his South Sydney Rabbitohs Club officials that he was not 100 per cent fit and did not want to let down his state or club, so he would be unavailable for both the Rabbitohs' Round 12 clash and Origin Game One on Wednesday week."
He cited his ongoing back issue as the reason for his absence, while Daley is expected to announce the team tomorrow morning.
Stephen Crichton is likely to be kept in the squad, with possible replacements for Mitchell including Tolutau Koula, Casey McLean, or Kotoni Staggs.
The Blues will finalize their lineup on Monday morning, while Mitchell's absence for Round 12 has also been confirmed by the Rabbitohs, followed by a bye in Round 13.