LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
In a move that has ruffled feathers and stirred the pot in the Rugby League world, Latrell Mitchell found himself embroiled in controversy as he attempted to serve his one-game ban this season.
Former player Braith Anasta hit the nail on the head when he labeled the situation as "an absolute piss take," highlighting the audacity of South Sydney's attempt to circumvent the rules and have Mitchell back on the field for a crucial match against bitter rivals, the Roosters.
But fear not, for the NRL showed backbone and stood their ground, ensuring that Mitchell will have to wait until the 2025 season to make his triumphant return to the field.
It's a move that may have ruffled the feathers of Rabbitohs fans, but in the grand scheme of things, it may have actually done them a favor.
While the official paperwork may have declared Mitchell fit to play, one can't help but wonder if the Rabbitohs would have risked fielding their star player in the last game of the season if not for the opportunity to wipe his slate clean of any previous indiscretions.
Interim coach Ben Hornby had previously ruled Mitchell out for the remainder of the season, making South Sydney's last-minute bid to have him back on the field appear rather cynical.
As the saying goes, it's not cricket - or in this case, rugby league - to bend the rules to suit one's own agenda.
In the end, the NRL's decision to hold firm and enforce the ban in 2025 may have saved South Sydney from themselves, sparing them from potential backlash and criticism.
Sometimes, tough love is the best love, even in the rough and tumble world of Rugby League.