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Jye Gray’s injury has forced Wayne Bennett into a fresh call on Latrell Mitchell’s best role as South Sydney weigh form against balance.

South Sydney Rabbitohs coach Wayne Bennett faces a key selection call after Jye Gray left the field injured during a 36-34 loss to the Canberra Raiders.

South Sydney suffered only their second defeat of the season in a high-scoring contest, but the focus quickly shifted to Gray's condition.

The fullback has been a consistent presence at No.1 in 2026, providing energy and defensive stability that has helped underpin the club's strong start.

His early shoulder injury forced a reshuffle. Latrell Mitchell moved from left centre back to fullback, while Tallis Duncan shifted into the centres.

The change reignited debate over Mitchell's best position, particularly given the team's balance when Gray starts at the back.

Mitchell still produced moments of quality, finishing with a solo try, a linebreak and 142 running metres. He also powered over the line carrying multiple defenders.

However, his performance included several errors as he pushed the play, highlighting the trade-off between his attacking influence and control.

The positional shift to the left edge has coincided with improved durability for Mitchell, who has featured in every match this season.

With Gray potentially sidelined for around four weeks due to a suspected AC joint injury, Bennett must decide whether to return Mitchell to fullback or retain him in the centres and introduce another option at the back.

Elsewhere, Cronulla Sharks hooker Blayke Brailey strengthened his case for representative honours despite his side's loss to the Sydney Roosters.

Up against incumbent Reece Robson, Brailey was influential around the ruck and delivered two try assists to help the Sharks build a lead before fading in the second half.

His sharp service and running game stood out in a match where the Roosters controlled the final 40 minutes.

Brailey had previously been close to selection for the NSW side and his current form has again put him firmly in contention.

With the faster tempo created by the six-again rule suiting his style, he is emerging as a leading option for coach Laurie Daley ahead of the 2026 State of Origin series.

Robson remains in the frame, particularly with the potential flexibility of an extended bench. However, Brailey's recent performances have placed him among the standout No.9s in the competition.