Latrell Mitchell Sidelined Indefinitely With Nerve Damage; Rabbitohs Seek Specialist Care

South Sydney superstar Latrell Mitchell will miss the remainder of the 2026 NRL season due to complex nerve damage in his left leg, the Rabbitohs confirmed this week. Mitchell has not played since Round 11 and is now seeing a neurologist and a spinal specialist. The club has no timetable for his return, raising fears his injury mirrors Tom Flegler’s severe nerve damage that kept the Dolphins star sidelined for 677 days.

Why Mitchell’s injury is so serious

Mitchell’s nerve damage began as a lower back issue but has complicated into a calf problem in his left leg. Foxsports.com.au’s Paul Crawley compared the situation to Flegler’s plight, noting the uncertainty around recovery timelines. “It’s a nerve problem in his leg as far as I’m aware and it’s similar to the Flegler situation in that they just don’t know how or when he’ll be back,” Crawley said on NRL 360. The Rabbitohs have not ruled out a return this year, but internally they are reportedly not counting on it.

Rabbitohs pursue specialist care

South Sydney has enlisted the same spinal specialist who helped save Anthony Minichiello’s NRL career, signalling the club’s determination to explore all options. Wayne Bennett has instructed the team not to rush Mitchell back. The move reflects the seriousness of the nerve damage and the club’s willingness to invest in expert medical assessment to determine whether Mitchell can return at all this season.

Impact on South Sydney’s season

Mitchell’s absence adds to South Sydney’s injury crisis. The club is also managing injuries to Cody Walker, Cameron Murray, and Brandon Smith. Tallis Duncan was ruled out with a hamstring injury for Round 22. With Mitchell unavailable and the squad stretched thin, the Rabbitohs face a challenging run to the finals.

Final Thoughts

Latrell Mitchell’s indefinite absence due to nerve damage leaves South Sydney facing a crucial period without one of their star players. The club’s pursuit of specialist care signals the severity of the injury and the uncertainty surrounding any potential return.

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