Latrell Mitchell could miss Roosters’ World Club Challenge to play for Indigenous All Stars
With speculation about his future at the club continuing, Latrell Mitchell could be set for a clash with the Sydney Roosters over his desire to play for the Indigenous All Stars next year.
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With his passion for indigenous causes, superstar centre Latrell Mitchell is facing another major dilemma to split his loyalty to the Sydney Roosters.
Last season Mitchell chose to play in the Indigenous All Stars ahead of the Roosters in their 20-8 World Club Challenge win over Wigan.
The Roosters supported his decision, albeit reluctantly.
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There is a clash of dates again on February 22 next year when the NRL premiers will be in the north of England to play St Helens in the WCC while the All Stars match takes place on the Gold Coast.
The Roosters totally respect Mitchell’s proud devotion and commitment to indigenous issues.
At the same time the club believes the WCC is a prestigious event that should involve all their star players.
There is more to the trip than just a game of rugby league.
Coach Trent Robinson has managed to organise a visit to FC Barcelona, one of the world’s great sporting organisations. The Roosters will have a two-day camp, use of their Nou Camp facilities and be guests at a game.
It is an opportunity rarely offered to other sporting franchises, let alone a league team.
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In a Saturday Telegraph interview, Latrell talked of his passion for his people.
“I feel like I am a leader, whether I like it or not, especially in my community,” he said.
“I love showing people what I’m proud of.
“I am proud of my heritage and to get an opportunity where I am on this stage and get my words out and my message to the younger generations — non-indigenous and indigenous.”
There is also the issue of Mitchell’s long-term future with the back-to-back NRL premiers.
The Roosters want him to stay but won’t budge from what they think he’s worth — around the $750,000-a-year mark — which is well below what the Bulldogs reportedly want to pay to lure him to Belmore.