Rabbitohs Set to Unleash New-Look Back Row as Fifita Joins Forces with Duncan
The South Sydney Rabbitohs are gearing up for a significant shake-up in their back row for the upcoming season, with the dynamic duo of Tallis Duncan and David Fifita poised to take the starting spots. Following two challenging years, the Rabbitohs are looking to rebound, and the arrival of Fifita from the Gold Coast Titans is already making waves amongst his new teammates.
Fifita, a former representative star, has made a strong impression during pre-season training. His move from the Titans, after a somewhat inconsistent tenure on the Gold Coast, is seen as a major boost for the Red and Green. He is widely expected to occupy one of the edge forward positions, where his powerful running game has been a hallmark of his career.
The other starting back row spot is anticipated to be filled by Tallis Duncan, who is set to be rewarded for a breakout 2025 campaign. The 23-year-old defied the club’s notorious injury curse, playing in all 24 games and showcasing his burgeoning talent. Duncan crossed for nine tries throughout the season, demonstrating remarkable comfort and effectiveness on the edge, a position he grew into after starting the year in the middle and coming off the bench.
Reflecting on his new role, Duncan shared his conversations with head coach Wayne Bennett. “I spoke to Wayne and we had a conversation,” he revealed. “He sees me at the moment playing in the back row. I really enjoyed playing in the back row at the back end of last year, so I’m really happy there.”
A Potent Edge Partnership
The prospect of Fifita and Duncan combining in the back row presents a potent one-two punch for the Rabbitohs. Fifita’s ability to generate go-forward and break tackles, coupled with Duncan’s versatility and try-scoring prowess, could prove a formidable force for opposition defences.
Duncan himself is effusive in his praise for his new teammate. “He’s a beast,” Duncan stated. “He’s everything that you see and he’s had a mad pre-season. I’m proud to call him one of my mates now, and I’m really excited to see him play.”
Rejigged Centres and Fullback Shuffle
The backline also sees a significant reshuffling, with Latrell Mitchell set to slot into the centre position. This move is facilitated by the emergence of Jye Gray as the club’s long-term fullback, a development that provides stability and a clear pathway for the young talent.
With Mitchell occupying the left centre role, Jack Wighton is expected to shift to the right side. There, he will form a new partnership with Campbell Graham. This strategic adjustment allows the Rabbitohs to leverage their strengths across the entire field.
Ahead of this weekend’s All Stars game, Duncan discussed his own role in the backline changes. “We’ve got a strong left edge with ‘Trell’ and a few of the boys there, so I’ve been doing a bit of work on the right edge,” he explained. “I’ve not played much right edge throughout my career, so it’s good to train my brain again to work on the opposite side of the field.” This adaptability from Duncan will be crucial as the team integrates its new combinations.
Culture of Success Under Bennett
The Rabbitohs have endured a difficult period in recent years, battling a relentless injury toll and finishing in the bottom four of the competition in both 2024 and 2025. However, a sense of optimism pervades the club as the playing group reports back fit and ready for the challenge ahead.
Skipper Cameron Murray has been quick to highlight the positive impact of Wayne Bennett’s coaching philosophy. Murray praised Bennett for fostering a culture that has significantly eased the pressures on the players. “It’s nice having Wayne there because he takes a lot of stress off your shoulders,” Murray commented.
Focus on Performance
Murray elaborated on the benefits of Bennett’s leadership. “You trust him with everything. You trust him with handling outside noise, you trust him with handling internal conversations and driving the culture that he wants to set at this club,” he said. This allows the players to concentrate solely on their on-field responsibilities.
“All we need to focus on as players is playing our best footy,” Murray continued. “It’s a simple, narrow focus for us, and it’s the type of focus that successful teams and players have. There are no excuses now to not play our best footy.” This clear directive and the renewed sense of unity are expected to be key drivers for the Rabbitohs’ resurgence.
