EXCLUSIVE: Billy Slater cautions against implementing forward pass technology following Latrell Mitchell’s match-winning moment

Billy Slater has expressed his reservations about the implementation of forward pass technology, despite acknowledging that Latrell Mitchell’s decisive pass raised a “question mark” during the game on Friday night.

In a crucial moment, the Rabbitohs star unleashed a precise pass to Isaiah Tass, who scored what became the winning try in their 20-14 triumph over the Roosters.

This spectacular play has been widely shared in the following days, with Latrell earning much of the credit for his pivotal contribution.

Nevertheless, some observers, including Slater, have questioned the legality of the pass, with numerous screenshots circulating on social platforms.

The incident has sparked renewed discussions regarding the need for the NRL to adopt technology enabling the Bunker to assess forward passes.

While appearing on Nine’s Billy Slater Podcast, the Maroons coach addressed the topic and swiftly dismissed the idea, even while contemplating the implications of the round five scenario.

“I’m going to say no, I don’t think that’s necessary,” Slater remarked.

“Unless there’s a camera that actually runs along the sideline to capture the precise angle of the ball, I’m not sure we can make that determination.”

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“The touch judges have an excellent line of sight, and they’re usually spot on.”

“I’ve got my doubts about Latrell Mitchell’s pass that clinched the game against the Roosters; I believe it was forward—but I’m prepared to accept the occasional error when we get the bulk of them right.”

“I believe there would be further disputes if we scrutinise it on television and replay angles that aren’t perfectly aligned with the pass.

“There are additional factors at play, such as the speed and momentum of the runner. These are aspects where the touch judge’s intuition proves invaluable.”

At present, the NRL has not indicated any plans to modify the Bunker’s capacity to adjudicate on forward passes, nor have they acknowledged the specifics of Latrell’s pass.