The article details the ongoing challenges faced by South Sydney Rabbitohs in the 2026 NRL season, with key players sidelined due to injuries.Latrell Mitchell, the team's star forward, is dealing with complex nerve damage and a calf injury, raising concerns about his potential retirement.Captain Cameron Murray is also sidelined with a calf injury, adding to the squad's woes.

Other injuries include Sean Keppie (thumb), Dayne Jennings (knee), Adam Elliott (ankle), and Talanoa Penitani (hamstring), leaving the team with a depleted squad heading into the finals.Mitchell's prognosis remains uncertain, with specialists indicating his return to play is a week-to-week proposition.

The article also highlights the impact of these injuries on the team's performance and morale, noting the reliance on depth to navigate the final stages of the season.

Additionally, other teams face their own challenges, such as Canterbury's Stephen Crichton returning at five-eighth and Manly's Lehi Hopoate stepping in as fullback.The piece underscores the physical toll of the NRL season and the importance of player health in determining team success.