NSW's chances at winning a decisive Origin Game 3 decider have taken a massive hit, with Rabbitohs star Latrell Mitchell sidelined for the winner-takes-all event.
Mitchell was an X-factor for the Blues in their Game 2 win in Melbourne, replacing the suspended Joseph Sua'ali'i and immediately proving to be one of the best players on the field.
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Latrell Mitchell injury update: South Sydney provide latest news
After consultation with a surgeon, it has been decided that Mitchell will not require surgery on his injured left foot.
"Mitchell has been reviewed by a surgeon this morning and a decision has been made to manage his left midfoot injury conservatively," the club noted on Tuesday.
"Mitchell will get another scan and review in a fortnight’s time to ensure the injury is progressing."
The injury setback has sidelined Mitchell for the Origin decider in Brisbane, while also causing massive issues for the Bunnies.
The club have had all three of their byes already, meaning Mitchell's absence could be exacerbated with games coming thick and fast until the end of the season.
He will miss this week's clash against the Dolphins, before fixtures against Canberra, Cronulla and Melbourne follow.
Will Latrell Mitchell play Origin 3?
Mitchell will miss State of Origin Game 3, after sustaining a foot injury in Round 18.
The fullback played through the injury as the Rabbitohs took down the Eels but is set for a sideline stint.
He did not play Game 1 but was a crucial part of the Blues success in Game 2, scoring a try and assisting on another as NSW cruised to a dominant 38-18 win.
Who will replace Latrell Mitchell in Origin 3?
Mitchell's absence throws a significant spanner in the works for coach Michael Maguire, who planned to select an unchanged lineup from the successful Game 2.
Bradman Best has won the race to start after being named in the centres alongside Stephen Crichton.
However, the Newcastle star faced his own injury drama when he was sent for a precautionary scan on his hamstring following his side's Round 18 win over Canberra.
Matt Burton has been brought into camp to cover for Best, although the Knights centre has since been cleared of any injury.