Rabbitohs Aim to Dispel ‘Myth’ Surrounding Forward Pack Despite Ongoing Doubts

As the South Sydney Rabbitohs gear up for the 2025 season, numerous uncertainties linger.

Will the unpredictable Latrell Mitchell manage to remain injury-free and in form? Is the legendary coach Wayne Bennett still capable of producing his signature magic? How will Josh Schuster fit into the squad?

These inquiries are undoubtedly at the forefront of discussions. However, there’s a conspicuous issue that the Rabbitohs appear to overlook.

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Despite boasting a glamorous backline capable of winning several matches, the composition of the club’s forward pack—particularly their front-row rotation—remains unclear.

Junior Tatola is returning from a significant injury absence, and it’s uncertain whether the Tongan international will recapture his previous form.

Davvy Moale, while possessing considerable potential, has a fair way to go in his development and, at just 21, cannot be expected to shoulder the burden alone in the front row.

If Tatola and Moale are the primary props for the Rabbitohs, there’s a noticeable drop-off afterwards with the likes of Sean Keppie and Shaq Mitchell.

It seems likely that Jai Arrow and Keaon Koloamatangi, who are not traditional props, will find themselves playing significant minutes in those positions this season.

Koloamatangi, previously a State of Origin edge back-rower, was once regarded as one of the finest in his role, while Arrow has predominantly played at lock but has been moved around the pack during his tenure at Redfern.

In contrast, top clubs like Melbourne, Cronulla, Brisbane, and Penrith experience far less uncertainty in such a critical area.

Craig Bellamy addressed the necessity of bolstering his front line by signing one of the most promising young forwards, Stefano Utoikamanu, to teammate Nelson Asofa-Solomona.

This move provides the Storm with depth in a vital position as they aim to improve after a heartbreaking grand final defeat against four-time champions Penrith.

In Cronulla, following consistent failures in finals, Craig Fitzgibbon secured Addin Fonua-Blake, signalling what could be one of the season’s best signings.

Fonua-Blake’s arrival will bolster the pack alongside Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele, and Oregon Kaufusi, creating a formidable front row.

Canterbury struggled up front last season despite exceeding expectations, so they’ve signed Tom Amone for this season and have secured Leo Thompson for 2026.

These quality additions follow impressive seasons from players like Samuel Hughes and Max King under the guidance of Cameron Ciraldo.

Even the Dragons, often scrutinised for their recruitment strategy, made a strong push to acquire a big forward, finally landing Canberra’s Emre Guler.

The loss of Tom Burgess heightened South Sydney’s need for front-row reinforcements. Instead, they opted for three utility players—Schuster, Jayden Sullivan, and Jamie Humphreys—alongside back-rower Euan Aitken and halfback Lewis Dodd.

Despite these potential challenges, Rabbitohs CEO Blake Solly mentioned that the club is not currently on the hunt for a prop, dismissing the “myth” regarding their forward pack’s depth.

“We’re at 27 of our top 30 contracted players and typically, we start the season with 28,” he told SEN.

“It’s slightly exaggerated that we need a big middle forward.

“Junior Tatola missed most of last season and he’s set to return. Davvy Moale is maturing in his role as a front-row player.

“We have Sean Keppie, Jai Arrow and various others who can contribute.

“Our forward pack is one that many other clubs would envy, featuring players like Keaon, Cameron [Murray], Euan Aitken, and Josh Schuster—there’s ample depth there.

“We’re confident not only in our forward strength but in our overall depth, and we intend to keep that salary cap space open for as long as possible.”

While the fast-paced modern game calls for more mobile forwards, the elite teams still have a formidable enforcer in the middle who sets the tone.

Tatola may potentially fill that role, and Moale possesses plenty of promise, though neither yet measure up to the likes of James Fisher-Harris, Payne Haas, or the aforementioned Fonua-Blake.