The Mole: Why Latrell Mitchell can't crack the NRL's 10 best centres list
He can be a match-winner and show flashes of brilliance most players can only dream about - but I can't find a place for Latrell Mitchell in my top 10 centres coming into 2026.
On his day, Latrell is Class with a capital 'C' - but injuries and form lapses have seen him produce not enough of those days over the past couple of years.
Contrast his form to that of Herbie Farnworth - the man at the top of my list - who makes breaks, scores tries and saves tries week in, week out for the Dolphins.
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It's a mighty effort by the Englishman considering the inconsistency of the Dolphins and he may well lead them to the promised land of the finals in 2026.
Here's my top 10 - with apologies to Gehamat Shibasaki (Broncos), Bronson Xerri (Bulldogs) and Dane Gagai (Knights) who narrowly miss out.
Latrell Mitchell. Nine
1. Herbie Farnworth (Dolphins)
In a hot field, the best all-round centre with a dynamic running game, good hands and the ability to read defence. I can see him steering the Dolphins into the finals come September.
2. Stephen Crichton (Bulldogs)
Not only a fine attacking weapon, but has developed into a real leader at the Bulldogs, with the captaincy last season lifting both him and the players around him.
3. Kotoni Staggs (Broncos)
Can have quiet games but when he is angry, there is no more dangerous or aggressive ball runner in the league. A handful when running at full steam.
Kotoni Staggs of the Broncos celebrates after scoring a try. Getty
4. Tolu Koula (Sea Eagles)
Comes off contract at the end of this season and little wonder half the clubs in the NRL want a piece of him - he's probably the fastest centre over the first 10 metres we've got in the NRL.
5. Casey McLean (Panthers)
Came from nowhere a couple of years ago to win premierships for the Panthers and a Kiwi Test jersey - and still only 19 years old.
6. Bradman Best (Knights)
Should really come of age this season after having few chances in the woeful Knights backline over the past few seasons. Big, strong and scary when given time and space.
7. Kayal Iro (Sharks)
His dad Kevin was a Manly and Kiwi great and Kayal is set to follow in his footsteps - usually good for a try a game and hits hard in defence as well.
Kayal Iro in action for the Sharks. NRL Photos
8. Val Holmes (Dragons)
Been a class act for a long time and still a polished finisher. Wasn't at his best last year but I'm excited about how he will go in a stronger Dragons team this campaign.
9. Matt Burton Bulldogs)
The most versatile player on the list - can slot in just about anywhere in the backline - and his booming high kicks strike fear into every rival player in the back three.
10. Robert Toia (Roosters)
An unknown this time last year, had a brilliant rookie season for the Roosters, deservedly winning Queensland honours and proving himself right up to Origin standard.
