Latrell Mitchell may be forced to make himself available for State of Origin, with the NRL confirming clubs and players are contractually obliged to do so.
Create a free account to read this article
or signup to continue reading
Mitchell is reported to be considering skipping this year's showpiece event in a bid to help South Sydney recover from their dismal start to the season.
The Rabbitohs fullback has missed the last two games through suspension, but will return in round 10 - in plenty of time to press his claims for a NSW jersey.
Blues coach Michael Maguire will pick his first Origin squad in little more than a month's time, ahead of his maiden game as coach on June 5 in Sydney.
It is possible Mitchell could be overlooked anyway, with Maguire indicating he wants players with a clear mind representing the Blues.
Mitchell did not feature in NSW's back-to-back series losses, but was selected at centre when last fit for Origin in 2021.
NRL officials confirmed to AAP on Monday that players are contractually obliged to make themselves available for selection - and clubs must release them if picked.
Some exemptions are allowed.
Kalyn Ponga pulled out for Queensland last year on medical grounds, after an extended period out of action following repeated concussions.
South Sydney centre Jack Wighton has also made himself unavailable, having retired from representative football last year.
The NRL are not concerned over any changing of the tide around Origin, or that non-availability could become a trend.
But they are also well aware of the importance of the series to the game's financial bottom line.
NRL bosses remain firmly of the view that the game's best players should feature in Origin, not least because of the broadcast revenue it generates.
South Sydney's board will convene on Tuesday, as pressure remains firmly on coach Jason Demetriou.
The Rabbitohs' 1-6 start to the season is their worst in 16 years, with the club facing a battle to recover and make finals.
Demetriou was given more time after his side's gutsy defeat to Cronulla earlier this month, but Souths backed that up with a 54-20 drubbing at the hands of Melbourne on Anzac Day.
South Sydney face three-time defending premiers Penrith on Thursday at Accor Stadium, before the draw eases slightly for them.
Australian Associated Press
