Even when he doesn’t play, his impact is still profound. Brad Fittler and Queensland know it, and so do the Rabbitohs
After South Sydney training, Latrell Mitchell stood calm and proud between his two families. With him were his father Matt and mum Patricia, down from Biripi country up Taree way. Clinging to his tree-trunk legs like koalas in pyjamas were his daughters Aleena and Inala. Close by was big brother teammate Shaquai. The Mitchells spoke together softly as Redfern locals walked by, nodding their respect as Latrell flashed them smiles or shot back a wink.
As members of the Rabbitohs family chatted to a nearby media huddle, singing his praises, Mitchell quietly radiated confidence and happiness. Yet the ink was still drying on the “scary”, “intimidating” and “rampaging” Latrell that had led his team’s victory over the Bulldogs days prior. Only three games into his return after three months on the sidelines with a hamstring injury, the full-back and acting captain had set up three tries for teammates and scored one himself.
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