How 'like for like' Gray replacement helps Latrell

With Matt Dufty set to play in his first NRL game in nearly four years, Corey Parker believes that his selection will help allow Latrell Mitchell to play at his best.

After three years in the Super League at Warrington for the last three seasons, the 30-year-old made the move back home and signed an NSW Cup contract to play with the Bunnies in 2026.

In his five games so far, the 30-year-old has managed to run for an average of 232.8 run metres alongside six line breaks, five try assists and five tries.

With his good form alongside Jye Gray’s AC joint sprain during their loss to the Raiders last week, the club applied for an exemption to allow Dufty to feature in the NRL side.

Following his inclusion in the NRL side, Parker believes Dufty makes for a great replacement for the 22-year-old.

“It’s a great story, isn’t it for Dufty?” he said on SEN’s Front Office with Vossy.

“He hasn’t played in the NRL (for four years). He was obviously over there playing in the Super League.

“But I think it is a like-for-like. I mean, Jye Gray has been terrific, and I love everything about what he brings to the football side.

“I think it allows Latrell to be parked out on that left centre and inject himself when he needs to.

“I think it is the right call putting Dufty back at fullback instead of going Latrell and gives him an opportunity. He’s quick, he’s busy, he’s bouncy.

“So, I’m sure he’ll be tested under the high ball at different stages but it’s an opportunity.”

Dufty will feature in the cardinal and myrtle this Saturday when the Rabbitohs take on the winless Dragons at Accor Stadium.

Kick off is at 5:30pm AEST.

Image Credit: South Sydney Rabbitohs' Instagram account