NSW Captain Praises Latrell Mitchell’s Selflessness
NSW captain Isaah Yeo has praised Latrell Mitchell for his selfless decision to step aside from the State of Origin series opener due to a back injury. Mitchell, who had been expected to play a key role in the game, chose to prioritize his recovery over his personal ambitions.
The decision came just before Laurie Daley was set to announce his team for the opening match. Mitchell informed the Blues coach that he would need to miss the game to focus on his recovery. This comes after he aggravated an existing back injury during South Sydney’s loss to the Dolphins at Magic Round. The injury was first sustained two weeks earlier, and Mitchell was unable to finish the match.
This is a significant setback for NSW, as Mitchell was considered a certainty to play left centre if fit. However, he will also miss at least the upcoming clash with North Queensland at NRL level. It is possible that he could return after the Rabbitohs’ round-13 bye.
A Team-First Decision
Yeo expressed admiration for Mitchell’s team-first attitude, highlighting the importance of putting the team’s needs above personal desires. “If you asked (Mitchell), there’d be no one who’d want to play for his state more, particularly with what he’s done in that arena,” Yeo said. “I’m obviously disappointed for him, but it’s a very selfless act.”
Mitchell had a quieter Origin series last year compared to his usual standards, but he has been in excellent form since transitioning from fullback to the centres in 2026. He initially suffered the injury in the Rabbitohs’ round-nine loss to Newcastle and was expected to miss up to two weeks. However, he returned after just one week, only to leave Friday’s loss in the 73rd minute with his Origin hopes in doubt.
Impact on the Blues’ Selection
The Blues had planned to name Mitchell in their team sheet and manage his injury ahead of the opening game in Sydney on May 27. They had previously taken a similar approach with Payne Haas and Brian To’o, who both overcame their injuries to become standout players in the series.
However, Mitchell’s decision forced the Blues to look elsewhere for options at left centre. Kotoni Staggs, Tolu Koula, and Casey McLean are now in contention. Staggs, a Brisbane premiership winner, has missed the past two weeks due to suspension but has shown strong form in the past. Koula and McLean, both uncapped players, have had impressive seasons with Manly and Penrith respectively.
Stephen Crichton’s Position
Canterbury captain Stephen Crichton has already been assured of retaining his right centre spot despite concerns over his form and a shoulder injury. Since returning early from a serious AC joint injury, Crichton has struggled to find his best form. However, he showed glimpses of his former self in Canterbury’s loss at Magic Round.
Crichton has appeared hesitant in his defensive and passing plays since returning in round seven, but he has not missed a single Blues game since his debut in 2022.
Teammates Joining Yeo in Camp
Yeo will be joined by at least two Panthers teammates in halfback Nathan Cleary and winger To’o. Their presence in the camp is expected to provide valuable support and cohesion for the Blues as they prepare for the upcoming matches.
