NRL star Latrell Mitchell’s dedication to NSW questioned after being spotted at a basketball court
Latrell Mitchell’s commitment to NSW called into question after he was spotted on a basketball court injured over claims his manager has labeled ‘pathetic’
- Mitchell missed the first game with a calf injury
- Races against time to qualify for Origin II
- Has been criticized for playing basketball
Latrell Mitchell’s manager and coach have suggested the State of Origin star is not treating his calf injury seriously ahead of the blockbuster to be won on June 21 at Suncorp Stadium.
The rumour, labeled ‘pathetic’ by Mitchell’s manager Matt Rose, insinuated that the injured player’s commitment to the New South Wales State of Origin team was questionable as he was seen playing basketball.
Both Mitchell’s manager and coach have vehemently denied the claims.
The controversy arose after Mitchell suffered a calf injury during training camp with the Blues ahead of Origin Game I.
News Corp reported that Mitchell was later seen on a basketball court with teammates, leading to suggestions that his injury may not have been serious enough to keep him from playing.
“I’ve never heard anything more pathetic in my life,” Rose said.
Mitchell races against time to be fit for second State of Origin clash with a nagging calf injury
The Blues star was a late withdrawal for New South Wales in game one won by Queensland
Mitchell, pictured with the Sydney Kings’ Shaun Bruce in 2021, has been criticized for going to a basketball court with Souths teammates
The manager revealed that Mitchell was deeply disappointed at missing the first game and followed it eagerly at home, showing his passion by kicking a cushion in frustration.
The manager emphasized Mitchell’s strong desire to return to the field and play for the Blues, dismissing the idea that his commitment was lacking.
Rabbitoh’s coach, Jason Demetriou, along with Rose, criticized the rumor, describing it as “ridiculous.”
Demetriou shared Mitchell’s genuine disappointment at not being able to wear the Blues jersey in the first match and confirmed that the player was doing everything he could to make a speedy recovery.
Latrell was stunned he didn’t put on the Blues jersey. Now he is doing everything he can to come back.
“Latrell is passionate about getting back on the field and playing for Freddy [Fittler] and the Blues.
“He’s racing the clock for them and the whole club is behind him and our other contenders (Cameron Murray, Damien Cook and Cody Walker).”
South Sydney stars Cameron Murray, Latrell Mitchell, Cody Walker and Damien Cook are all likely to play for the Blues in State of Origin II
Souths coach Jason Demetriou rushed to Mitchell’s defense and said his dedication to his club and the NSW Blues was unquestionable
According to Rose, Mitchell has been fully committed to his rehabilitation program led by South Sydney.
“If asked to do a specific exercise five times, he’ll do it ten times,” Rose said.
‘They would [NSW] be crazy not to pick him and let him go through the week.
“Both he and Cody Walker (who also manages Rose) want so much to be right about helping their state.
“Heaven help if they get there.”
Mitchell has yet to test his injured calf, with his first run scheduled for Monday, June 12.
Both Mitchell and Murray will only join the NSW Origin camp once they are cleared of their respective injuries by Rabbitoh’s medics.
Even if they get the green light, they’ll be limited to light duties until the end of the following week.
The Blues and Souths remain hopeful that both players will be fit in time for the crucial Origin clash at Suncorp Stadium.
It comes after the Blues took a blow when star halfback Nathan Cleary was ruled out of Game II with a hamstring injury.
Cleary acknowledged his frustration and expressed uncertainty about the recovery process, saying his situation was being assessed on a day-to-day basis.