NRL deny “loophole” for Latrell Mitchell after suspension ruling

The NRL has firmly clarified that there is no “loophole” in the league’s rulebook that would allow South Sydney star Latrell Mitchell to serve his one-game suspension during Round 27. If he is not healthy and eligible to play in Rabbitohs vs. Roosters, the match cannot count towards his suspension.  

Rabbitohs submit testimony 

Latrell Mitchell was ruled out for the rest of the season with injury. After he was suspended one match for being pictured with a white powder in a hotel room in Dubbo last month, Rabbitohs now say he is fit to play.  
 
South Sydney submitted testimony from three doctors to the NRL saying that he was fit enough to play in the club’s final match of the season against the Roosters. Many NRL fans accused the club of using a “loophole” to get around Mitchell’s suspension when he is not really fit.  
 
Because of the controversy, the NRL was asked to provide a ruling.  

NRL CEO says there is no loophole 

Speaking about the issue on Wednesday, NRL Chief Executive Andrew Abdo called the Mitchell situation a “unique circumstance” that the NRL, Souths, and Mitchell are working on resolving together. 
 
“It’s a unique circumstance, so we’re doing our due diligence,” Abdo said.  
 
“We’re working with and liaising with the club. We want to make sure we satisfy ourselves that he’s fit and eligible to play before we make that decision, so we’re having a look at that at the moment and we haven’t finalised that yet.” 
 
When asked specifically about the perception that Souths and Mitchell have gotten preferential treatment, Abdo dismissed the criticism. He was also quick to point out that there is no “loophole” for Rabbitohs to use in this case. 
 
“I don’t think it’s a loophole,” Abdo said about Rabbitohs’ request to have Mitchell serve his suspension this year.

“An off-field suspension should be served when the player is fit and available to play so he’s actually missing a match, particularly if the suspension has occurred post-injury. 
 
“So it’s not a loophole. We’ll look at it, work with the club and then make our decision.” 

While Abdo was not definitive about whether Mitchell will be allowed to serve his suspension this year, most reports claim the league will deny Souths’ request. Mitchell will most likely miss the start of the 2025 NRL season.