LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The NRL has put a lid on any hopes of Latrell Mitchell dodging a one-game suspension by playing on Friday night.
NRL boss Andrew Abdo has shut down any talk of a "loophole" in the league rules, denying South Sydney's attempt to have their star player serve the ban in the final round of the season.
Mitchell was slapped with a one-game ban for tarnishing the game's reputation after a controversial incident involving a white powder in a Dubbo hotel room.
The NRL conducted an investigation, leading to the suspension.
In order for the ban to be enforced, Mitchell had to be officially cleared by South Sydney's medical team and be ready for selection.
The Rabbitohs went the extra mile, consulting three different doctors to provide proof that Mitchell, who has been out of action since injuring his foot in round 18, was fit to take the field against the Roosters on Friday.
Just two weeks ago, interim coach Ben Hornby had ruled Mitchell out for the rest of the season.
However, the suspension from the NRL changed the game plan.
On Tuesday, Mitchell was seen on the sidelines, only able to work out on an exercise bike instead of joining his teammates for training.