Mitchell Breaking Silence for Graham's Milestone

Latrell Mitchell has broken his media silence to honour teammate Campbell Graham ahead of his 150th NRL game this week, declaring happiness and team unity as the Rabbitohs look to rejoin the winner's circle.

Honouring a Mate's Milestone

Latrell Mitchell has emerged from his self-imposed media break to celebrate one of his closest teammates, with Campbell Graham set to play his 150th NRL game this week. The star centre made it clear his rare appearance before the cameras was specifically to honour his long-time teammate.

"Campbell's been a really good teammate to me for a very long time and I thought you know what better time to come out and have a yarn, it's his 150th game," Mitchell said.

Mitchell was full of praise for Graham's qualities both on and off the field, highlighting the centre's toughness and reliability. He described Graham as a player who always does his job without complaint, regardless of the circumstances. Mitchell backed Graham as a genuine Origin contender, noting he has been in the conversation for a few years and would look at home in a New South Wales jumper.

Happiness On and Off the Field

Throughout the interview, Mitchell's demeanour reflected a player content with his football and life circumstances. When asked about his extended absence from media duties, he explained his approach was simply about maintaining focus on the team and only speaking on special occasions.

Mitchell emphasised the connection between personal contentment and on-field performance. "I think that goes hand in hand with that question mate, just being happy, that's all that matters," he said, before adding that he has a great family at home and a good circle around him.

The fullback-turned-centre spoke about his role as a leader off the field, particularly for his children. He revealed he has made himself into a role model for his kids, focusing on giving back to them and showing them the importance of perseverance.

Team-First Mentality

Mitchell's move back to centre this season came from his own initiative rather than a directive from coach Wayne Bennett. The switch has allowed the Rabbitohs to accommodate their squad's talent across key positions.

"I approached Wayne and just said to him that I think I just want to be a team player and wherever that is for you Wayne I'll do, I'd play front row for him if you know what I mean," Mitchell explained.

The 26-year-old spoke warmly about the current squad environment, describing his love for every single teammate and their different traits and personalities. He praised the connections within the group as a key factor in the team's strong start to the season. Mitchell dismissed external expectations about the Rabbitohs' premiership credentials, instead focusing on the group's approach of going out each week and having fun while being good teammates to each other.

Fifita's Fresh Start and Origin Aspirations

Mitchell, who rooms with David Fifita, spoke candidly about the forward's integration into the squad and his journey back to form. He described Fifita as genuine and stressed, noting the challenges the big forward has faced.

"With Dave he's had a hard slog with his stuff, so for him now it's just about getting back on track and getting fit again and having a crack," Mitchell said, adding that he loves seeing Fifita running the ball as everyone does.

On his own representative ambitions, Mitchell was succinct but clear about his desire to return to the Origin arena. He loves the Blues and what New South Wales represents, describing it as a different story when putting on the sky blue jersey. Mitchell confirmed there is unfinished business with New South Wales, declaring the kettle is still boiling.