Meninga's message to Latrell amid surprise footy return
The Kangaroos coach had some wise words for Latrell Mitchell as the Rabbitohs star prepares to take part in the First Nations Knockout.
Moderated by Tomas Kauer 
Kangaroos coach Mal Meninga has urged Latrell Mitchell to focus on South Sydney's pre-season training with the Rabbitohs star set to take part in the First Nations Knockout.
South Sydney has given Mitchell the green light to play in the annual event for his home town Taree, which will take place on the first weekend of October, before the NRL season officially concludes.
Mitchell's cameo at the Koori Knockout last year initially left Meninga "surprised" after South Sydney informed the national coach he would be unavailable to represent Australia due to a finger injury.
READ MORE: Joey drops Hunt bombshell in surprise three-club switch
READ MORE: Ruling ripped as team docked points for extra large bats
READ MORE: Awkward stand-off as $908m star refuses to pay fines
Fast-forward a year and Mitchell's fitness has again hogged the headlines as Souths launched a push for the fullback to serve his suspension for the white powder picture during last Friday night's clash with the Sydney Roosters.
The club submitted evidence from three doctors that the fullback was fit to play, after suffering a foot injury earlier in the year, but the NRL did not budge and ruled the star player will serve his suspension in round one next year.
Even though Mitchell played a pivotal role in helping NSW level the State of Origin series in game two, Meninga said the Indigenous star wasn't a realistic option to appear for the Kangaroos in the Pacific Championships.
Watch the 2024 NRL premiership live and free on Nine and 9Now.
"He just hasn't played any footy really (to be considered)," Meninga told SEN radio.
"In my mind, it's important that he gets himself fit and healthy, apparently he's going to play in our First Nations knockouts, but I think he needs a really good off-season.
"Let's hope and pray that he has an injury-less season and plays really well."
While Mitchell has committed to play in the local competition, Souths boss Blake Solly has reportedly requested a meeting with the NRL after being left confused by the star's suspension for the 2025 season.
The First Nations Knockout will be hosted in Bathurst this year and will take place on NRL grand final weekend.
Mitchell represented Newcastle Yowies in 2023.
Rabbitohs teammates Cody Walker, Isaiah Tass and Jack Wighton also featured amongst other past and present NRL stars at the carnival last year.
