Latrell Mitchell Ruled Out of Indigenous All Stars Clash Again

The Indigenous All Stars team has been dealt a significant blow with the confirmation that South Sydney Rabbitohs superstar Latrell Mitchell will be unavailable for the annual showcase event for the second year in a row. Mitchell sustained a calf injury during pre-season training last month, with his absence officially announced on Thursday ahead of the highly anticipated clash against the Maori All Stars in Waikato on February 15.

Key Absences for Indigenous Side

Mitchell is not the only high-profile player missing from the Indigenous lineup. His South Sydney teammate, five-eighth Cody Walker, has also withdrawn from the annual match to concentrate on maintaining his fitness for the NRL's Round 1. Walker endured a frustrating and injury-plagued season with the Rabbitohs in 2025, making his preseason preparation particularly crucial.

The Rabbitohs are heavily reliant on both Mitchell and Walker to begin the 2026 NRL season in peak condition. Their 2025 campaign was marred by injuries and culminated in a disappointing 14th-place finish, underscoring the importance of a strong start this year.

Indigenous Squad Strengths and Stories

Despite these absences, the Indigenous All Stars squad boasts considerable talent. Cronulla Sharks halfback Nicho Hynes, Parramatta Eels winger Josh Addo-Carr, and Gold Coast Titans livewire Jayden Campbell headline the team's selections.

Several players have compelling narratives heading into the match. Manly Sea Eagles recruit Jamal Fogarty is poised to play his first minutes since a challenging NRL finals series with the Canberra Raiders. Indigenous winger Alofiana Khan-Pereira will use the platform to push for a regular starting spot at the New Zealand Warriors after a tough final season with the Gold Coast Titans.

Furthermore, Mitchell's brother, former Souths forward Shaquai Mitchell, has earned a place in the Indigenous squad as he seeks to secure a new NRL contract.

Maori All Stars Lineup and Absences

The Maori All Stars side features its own array of stars, including Warriors duo James Fisher-Harris and Dallin Watene-Zelezniak, alongside Canterbury Bulldogs recruit Leo Thompson.

Brisbane Broncos outside back Jesse Arthars, who was the 18th player in the Broncos' 2025 premiership victory, has been selected and is set to start the year on this significant stage for the Maori team.

Newcastle Knights recruit Trey Mooney will have an opportunity to impress his new club's hierarchy when he lines up for the Maori side. However, his Knights teammates, playmaker Dylan Brown and fullback Kalyn Ponga, are among those sitting out the match to ensure they are ready for the club's high-profile season opener in Las Vegas.