​​​Tessa Lee, Sports journalist reporting on global leagues since 2021.​

The Latrell Mitchell injury scare has created fresh concern for South Sydney Rabbitohs and New South Wales Blues supporters after the superstar left training early on Monday morning in Sydney. Mitchell, who has been recovering from a back injury that ruled him out of the opening two State of Origin matches, participated in part of the session before heading inside after about 30 minutes. The development matters because Mitchell was expected to return for South Sydney against Parramatta on Thursday and was also pushing for selection in the State of Origin decider.

The Rabbitohs fullback and centre had been building toward a comeback after several weeks on the sidelines. His expected return against the Eels was seen as a crucial step in proving his fitness ahead of the deciding Origin match.

At the time of the training session, there was no official explanation for why Mitchell left the field early. Reports indicated that a Rabbitohs official had not yet received information about the situation, leaving uncertainty around the extent of any potential issue.

Uncertainty surrounds training exit

Mitchell began the session alongside his South Sydney teammates as preparations continued for Thursday night's clash with Parramatta. Observers then noticed the representative star returning indoors after approximately half an hour.

Without confirmation from club staff, it remains unclear whether the early exit was related to his recent back injury, a planned workload management decision, or another minor concern.

The timing has naturally attracted attention given Mitchell's importance to both club and state. South Sydney are eager to welcome one of their most influential players back into the lineup, while New South Wales selectors are monitoring his fitness ahead of the Origin decider.

Mitchell has often been one of the most impactful players in representative football when available. His ability to break games open with powerful running, strong defence and creative playmaking makes him a major asset for the Blues.

Mitchell confident about return

Just one day before the training incident, Mitchell expressed confidence about his recovery during an appearance on Fox League's Sunday Night with Matty Johns.

The 28 year old explained that his rehabilitation had been progressing well and outlined some of the work he had been doing to regain full fitness.

“Yeah it’s (the recovery) been good. Been doing a bit of swimming, pilates,” Mitchell said.

“I’ll be pushing to play this week. See if Wayne has a position for me.”

Those comments suggested Mitchell believed he was close to making a successful return to the field. His remarks also reinforced the expectation that he would be available for South Sydney's upcoming match.

Whether Monday's training development changes that outlook remains unknown until further information emerges from the club.

Important week for South Sydney

South Sydney have endured a difficult season and the potential return of Mitchell would provide a significant boost. The Rabbitohs have struggled with injuries across the campaign and have frequently been without several key players.

Mitchell's presence offers experience, leadership and attacking quality. Even when returning from injury, he can transform the shape of the team's attack and provide confidence to teammates around him.

The clash with Parramatta represents an important opportunity for the Rabbitohs as they continue to search for consistency. A successful comeback from Mitchell would not only help South Sydney's chances on Thursday night but also provide reassurance regarding his long term fitness.

Supporters will now wait for clarification from coach Wayne Bennett and the club's medical staff regarding Mitchell's condition.

For the latest South Sydney updates and squad news, visit the club page here.

Blues watching closely ahead of Origin

The New South Wales Blues will also be paying close attention to developments over the coming days. Mitchell missed the opening two matches of the 2025 State of Origin series because of the back problem, but his name has remained part of discussions surrounding the deciding game.

A fully fit Mitchell would give selectors another elite option in the backline. His representative record and ability to perform on the biggest stage have made him a regular feature in Origin conversations for several years.

The Blues secured a crucial result earlier in the series to force a decider, setting up a highly anticipated conclusion to the interstate contest. Any update regarding Mitchell's availability is therefore likely to generate significant interest.

Official Origin information and scheduling details can be found here.

Awaiting official explanation

At this stage, there is no confirmed indication that Mitchell has suffered a setback. The lack of information surrounding his departure from training has simply created uncertainty during an important week.

His comments on Sunday suggested confidence and optimism regarding his return, making Monday's events all the more notable.

Until South Sydney provides an update, supporters of both the Rabbitohs and the Blues will be left waiting for answers. With a club comeback and potential Origin selection both on the horizon, Mitchell's fitness remains one of the biggest storylines in rugby league this week.