South Sydney Rabbitohs are enduring their worst start to an NRL season since 2008, sitting last on the ladder with a 1-4 record. Star fullback Latrell Mitchell is once again absent, serving a suspension for dangerous contact, while coach Jason Demetriou's job hangs in the balance amid an internal review.
Mitchell was signed in 2020 to underpin a decade of dominance, much like Greg Inglis did after arriving in 2011 and delivering the 2014 premiership. However, Mitchell has struggled with injuries and suspensions, playing just 64 games in four seasons at Souths compared to 96 in his final four years at the Roosters, and scoring only 34 tries against 65 previously.
The 26-year-old has missed crucial matches, including the 2021 grand final defeat to Penrith, where his absence due to a six-week ban for a high shot on Joey Manu was keenly felt. His disciplinary issues have continued in 2024, with late hits and lifting tackles drawing criticism from fans and pundits alike.
Rumours of unrest within the squad have surfaced, with allegations of favouritism towards Mitchell contributing to Sam Burgess's departure as assistant coach and tension with winger Alex Johnston. This week, Mitchell apologised to his teammates for his 'stupid things', vowing to stay in camp and work on his game rather than retreating to his farm.
With the Rabbitohs lacking spark and their Origin players out of form, the golden era promised by Mitchell's signing looks increasingly distant. The club now faces a fight to salvage their season, with Demetriou under scrutiny and their star fullback yet to deliver on his potential.
