The Rabbitohs reportedly believe the Roosters are behind leaked text messages that have caused more drama at the club.
Souths Sydney were already embroiled in controversy amid club legend Sam Burgess walking out on the club when texts ridiculing star fullback Latrell Mitchell found their way into the media.
The son of Souths legend Clive Churchill, Rodney, messaged Rabbitohs chairman Nick Pappas back in May following a below-par performance from Mitchell.
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Churchill apologies for Latrell comments | 02:05
The text, which called Mitchell an “impostor” among other stinging criticisms, was then leaked just a week before the clubs square off in a winner-takes-all clash this Friday.
Rodney Churchill presents the Clive Churchill Medal to the man-of-the-match on grand final day, but Souths players are now set to boycott receiving it if a member of their teams wins it.
The Rabbitohs are suspicious that the Roosters are involved in the leak, according to Channel 9 reporter Danny Weidler who said there is no suggestion Pappas was responsible.
“I think this message was sent to several people, and obviously once it gets sent around it can end up with a person like myself,” Weidler said on 100% Footy.
“I do think South Sydney are of the belief that in some way – and this is going to cause a stir – the Roosters helped this get out there, and they are playing (each other) this week.
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“That’s a theory that is coming out of Souths. I’m not saying it is (true), but that’s a theory that is coming out of Souths, (an attempt to) destabilise Latrell.”
Mitchell is currently serving a one-game suspension for dangerous contact against the Knights and won’t face the Roosters on Friday.
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