The Mole: How Wayne Bennett Could Transform the ‘Temperamental’ Pair and Resolve South Sydney’s Issues

Wayne Bennett’s most remarkable asset during his ‘golden’ years lies not purely in his coaching capabilities but in his prowess as a man manager — a skill that could well see the South Sydney Rabbitohs ascend the standings in 2025.

Following a disappointing 2024 season in which they clinched only seven victories and narrowly avoided the wooden spoon against the Tigers, the Rabbitohs have re-engaged the master tactician after his two-year period with the Dolphins in the top tier.

With the star combination of Latrell Mitchell and Cody Walker, the Bunnies boast two of the NRL’s most gifted yet unpredictable players.

Competitors and coaches are fully aware that the duo can easily be provoked and distracted, which is where Bennett’s psychological strategies come into play.

If he can steer them to focus on their game and maintain composure, the Rabbitohs will surely find themselves in contention for the finals.

Last year, the team struggled significantly under the weight of an inconsistent halfback, a critical concern they have sought to address by signing St Helens’ playmaker Lewis Dodd.

However, Dodd may need some time to adjust to the NRL following a lacklustre trial period last weekend in Sydney.

Should Dodd face challenges, another option could be Jamie Humphreys from the Sea Eagles, a promising young talent who might just spring a surprise.

Furthermore, keep an eye on Bennett working his magic on another unpredictable player, Josh Schuster, who has also joined from Manly.

Although Schuster possesses undeniable talent, he has struggled to find his footing in recent seasons, but Bennett could help him regain his form — expect to see him shine.

The Bunnies will certainly miss Thomas Burgess and Damien Cook — two stalwarts of their forward pack in recent times — and as of yet, they have not brought anyone in to replace them.

Peter Mamouzelos has been prepared to step into the hooker role but may take some time to come to terms with the demands of being a regular NRL player in the crucial dummy-half position.

Injuries have already plagued Souths, with unfortunate centre Campbell Graham and seasoned winger Alex Johnston unlikely to be fit for the season opener.

2025 Gains

Jamie Humphreys (Sea Eagles), Euan Aitken (Dolphins), Lewis Dodd (St Helens), Josh Schuster (Sea Eagles), Jayden Sullivan (Wests Tigers)

2025 Losses

Thomas Burgess (Huddersfield), Damien Cook (Dragons), Dean Hawkins (Eels), Taane Milne (released), Michael Chee Kam (Sea Eagles), Leon Te Hau (released), Lachlan Ilias (Dragons), Izaac Tu’itupou Thompson (released)

Best Acquisition:

Schuster is a top-tier talent capable of playing both centre and second-row. While the NRL has yet to see the best of him at Manly, a change of environment and mindset could ignite his potential.

This season is crucial for:

Latrell appears to be in prime condition during pre-season, looking leaner than in recent years, and Bennett could draw out his best performance yet.

Key Question:

Do the Rabbitohs possess enough firepower upfront and a match-winning halfback to make a genuine impact come finals time?

Predicted Finish: 13th

Projected Line-Up for Round One: 1. Latrell Mitchell 2. Fletcher Myers 3. Jack Wighton 4. Isaiah Tass 5. Tyrone Munro 6. Cody Walker 7. Lewis Dodd 8. Tevita Tatola 9. Peter Mamouzelos 10. Davvy Moale 11. Jai Arrow 12. Keaon Koloamatangi 13. Cameron Murray 14. Jamie Humphreys 15. Sean Keppie 16. Tallis Duncan 17. Josh Schuster

Odds to Claim the Championship: $18