Latrell Mitchell injury raises Origin I fitness concerns after Souths loss

Latrell Mitchell left the field in visible pain late in South Sydney’s 32-10 Magic Round defeat to the Dolphins on Friday night, triggering fresh concern in New South Wales Origin camp ahead of the first series match. Mitchell, who had missed the prior week because of a back injury, was replaced in the 73rd minute after limping during the second half at Suncorp Stadium.

New South Wales officials were subsequently assured Mitchell would be fit for Origin I, with the expectation he would follow a modified training program to manage the back pain. Souths trainers said Mitchell was sore the next morning but showed no signs of a serious injury, and there is no plan for additional scans at this stage. NSW coach Wayne Bennett said Mitchell’s situation was manageable with the turnaround before the May 28 opener.

“Its OK, hes not too bad. Its nothing major. Theres a 12day turnaround, so I think hell be all right.”

Mitchell’s concern emerged as the Dolphins delivered one of their strongest performances of the season. They led 20-0 at halftime, including the first time this year they had kept an opponent scoreless in the opening 40 minutes. Max Plath opened the scoring, with Herbie...