‘I’m stunned’: Kevvie explains Latrell omission as experts react to shock World Cup call

Australian Kangaroos coach Kevin Walters has omitted star centre Latrell Mitchell from the starting lineup for the Rugby League World Cup semi-final against Samoa. Walters chose to retain the starting side that defeated the Cook Islands 66-6, naming Bradman Best and Kotoni Staggs as starting centres. The decision places Mitchell, fullback James Tedesco, and halfback Sam Walker among the reserves.

The selection drew surprise from experts, with CODE Sports reporter Brent Read stating he was stunned by Mitchell's omission from a knockout match. Walters defended the decision by citing Best's strong form for New South Wales and Newcastle, though he noted Mitchell could still feature from the six-man bench.