EXCLUSIVE: Origin Legend’s Urgent Call Following ‘Disheartening’ Media Freeze from Latrell Mitchell and Spencer Leniu

NSW State of Origin legend Benny Elias has condemned Latrell Mitchell and Spencer Leniu’s media silences as “a blight on the game,” urging the NRL to remind these Blues stars of their obligations from an “economic perspective.”

Speaking with Wide World of Sports after his induction into the NSWRL Hall of Fame, Elias acknowledged that Mitchell and Leniu might have valid reasons for their silence but called on the NRL to investigate these matters further.

According to a media release from the NSWRL, the “full squad” for the Origin opener would be available for media interviews at its centre of excellence on Monday. However, neither Mitchell nor Leniu appeared for comments.

Blues coach Laurie Daley stated in an interview with Fox League that the star duo would likely avoid media interactions during the Origin I camp, alluding to “storylines” that might be sensitive and suggesting it wouldn’t be prudent to “inflame” those situations.

“I find it disappointing,” Elias told WWOS.

“They have a responsibility to the fans who support State of Origin as spectators.”

“While the two players have their rights and freedoms, they should understand that this game is for the fans. This is our flagship event, and stripping that colour away from State of Origin could signal the beginning of its decline.”

Elias echoed sentiments expressed by former NSW coach Phil Gould, who remarked on Nine’s 100% Footy that media bans should not be an option for players, as they have contractual obligations.

“Fans enjoy the rivalry and the banter leading up to the match; they need to be reminded of that,” Elias continued.

“This is the people’s game, and it holds significance for those battling hard out west, farmers, and families in need.”

Catch the 2025 State of Origin series live and free on Nine and 9Now.

“Fans are eager for the inside scoop leading to the big event, and if that gets taken away, it truly diminishes the game. I believe it to be a significant issue.

“The NRL needs to remind them about the economic principles at play and the importance of gamesmanship.”

“They must understand the golden rule: whoever holds the goal sets the rules, and since the NRL is the driving force, a lack of banter between players is disheartening for the game’s future.

“Education on this dynamic is essential.”

Tensions remain high after Leniu’s controversial incident with Queensland great Johnathan Thurston at Suncorp Stadium last month.

This clash arose from Leniu referring to Broncos player Ezra Mam as a “monkey” in Las Vegas last year, alongside comments made by Thurston following the ensuing racism scandal.

The NRL handed Leniu an eight-match suspension, leading Thurston to assert on Nine’s Today that the governing body had “failed” and should have imposed a 12-match ban instead.

“It was a perfect opportunity to implement a 12-week blanket ban for all racial vilification if someone is found guilty,” Thurston argued.

QRL chief executive Ben Ikin highlighted the growing tensions between Leniu and the Queensland camp, noting in an interview with The Sydney Morning Herald that the Maroons are likely to “target” the Roosters prop due to his aggressive run-in with “one of the most cherished figures in Queensland.”

Mitchell has also made headlines for various incidents lately, including his controversial radio interview with Triple M, the infamous white-powder image, and his increasingly frequent trips to the sin bin.

This season, the South Sydney fullback holds the record for the most sin-bin occurrences in the NRL era, facing suspension for 10 minutes on 13 occasions throughout his 177-game career, closely followed by Victor Radley and Jared Waerea-Hargreaves with 11 each.

While Leniu’s media silence has recently commenced, Mitchell has been avoiding press since the emergence of the white-powder photograph.

There are numerous speculations regarding why both players have chosen to refrain from media engagements, but neither has clarified their reasons.

WWOS reached out to the NRL for comments regarding these media silences.

“I’m unsure about the reasons behind their silence leading up to Origin I,” Elias stated.

“It might relate to mental health — I really don’t know — and that’s why I hesitate to criticise them, as their motivations are not clear to me.

“The NRL should ask them for an explanation. If their reasons are legitimate, we can respect that; however, if they aren’t, they must remember that it’s all part of the narrative.

“The spectacle isn’t solely about playing for 80 minutes; it’s also about the build-up and all the excitement surrounding this prestigious competition.”