South Sydney fullback Latrell Mitchell has declared he’s ready to “give it to some Queenslanders”, telling NSW coach Michael Maguire he’s “keen” to play game two of the State of Origin series at the MCG.
Mitchell looms as one of the favourites to replace Joseph Suaalii in the Blues side after the Sydney Roosters young gun was sent off in the Origin series opener, which Queensland won 38-10, for a high tackle on Maroons fullback Reece Walsh.
The 26-year-old did his chances no harm by starring in the Rabbitohs’ 22-12 victory over the Brisbane Broncos at Accor Stadium on Friday evening, scoring a try and setting another up while running 173 metres.
Watch every game of every round this NRL Telstra Premiership Season LIVE with no ad-breaks during play on Kayo. New to Kayo? Start your free trial today >
WHAT’S GAMBLING REALLY COSTING YOU? Set a deposit limit.
Mitchell, who has not played Origin football since 2021, is eager to add to his seven NSW appearances and fill the vacancy in the Blues backline for this month’s must-win game in Melbourne.
“I’m ready. I’m keen,” Mitchell told the Sydney Morning Herald.
“If (Maguire) wants me, I’m in. I’m ready to go to Melbourne and give it to some Queenslanders.
“I’m ready to go if I get picked. I won’t let the state down.”
Mitchell admitted he considered withdrawing himself from contention for last week’s series opener due to fear of being made a scapegoat.
The New South Welshman believes he was hung out to dry during previous Origin campaigns, including the 2019 series when coach Brad Fittler dropped him without explanation.
“There was a lot of doubt with NSW because I’ve never been looked after,” Mitchell continued.
“I’ve been the scapegoat. I don’t want to go into this camp being the scapegoat if they lose.
“I just felt like before, I was always the scapegoat. That it was just easier to go against me than with me.
“There’s so much bulls*** about me and Origin, when all I’ve ever done is win for Origin. I’ve given everything to NSW, the badge and the name on my back – my family. Not having that protection after, when s*** hits the fan, that’s where the doubt crept in about going back and playing representative footy.”
Mitchell and Maguire were spotted deep in conversation during South Sydney’s ten-year premiership reunion at Souths Juniors on Saturday. Later that afternoon, Mitchell posted a picture of himself and Maguire to his Instagram Story with the caption: “We on?”
The Blues will announce their squad for game two on Sunday.