Twist in Latrell's Origin decision as NRL flexes clause

Reports around Latrell Mitchell’s potential desire to withdraw from game one of State of Origin could come with a twist as an NRL clause comes to light.

The clause lists that if a player is selected for a representative team and withdraws, the players agrees they will not be available to play for their club in any game he would’ve been able to play for a representative team.

“The NRL’s argument will be the reason they are paid so well is because the money that Origin generates for the game and they need their best players available,” 9News and The Sydney Morning Herald reporter Michael Chammas revealed on Nine’s 100% Footy.

Former NSW Blues coach Phil Gould explained that players have previously made attempts to pull out of Origin.

“It has raised its head a few times, normally it’s senior players that are changing clubs or getting on their last final big deal and the club is saying ‘if you’re going to get this money and finish off your career, we need you every week’,” he said.

“Some players after good service or long-term service for representative football have been given consideration to pull out. There have been a few over the years that have tried to pull out or clubs have pulled them out for various reasons.”

News of the clause comes after Kalyn Ponga withdrew from Origin duty last year to focus on the Knights.

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