Latrell Mitchell has declared himself unavailable for State of Origin selection despite making a successful NRL comeback in South Sydney's 30-12 upset win over Parramatta.
Mitchell has voluntarily withdrawn from contention for Origin III, leaving Matt Burton, Jack Wighton and Stephen Crichton jostling for two spots in the centres.
"I think I'm going to shut those headlines down now, I'm going to pull myself out (of Origin) and worry about Souths and focus on myself," Mitchell told Fox Sports.
"They've got a real good team there, NSW, and good luck to them and Burton in the centres.
"Give Crichton a go too. I really want to focus on South Sydney and getting myself right for the backend of the season."
Playing his first game since injuring a hamstring in round five, Mitchell focused more on getting through the 80 minutes unscathed than putting on a rugby league masterclass.
When the game was in the balance, Alex Johnston put his hand up for yardage carries more often than Mitchell, while the halves took on the vast majority of playmaking duties.
Mitchell did break through the line to ignite the play that put the result beyond doubt in the 65th minute.
"I'm really proud of him," said Cook, who has played with Mitchell in seven Origin games.
"All the work he's done the last 12 weeks to get himself right and now to put South Sydney first, it's great work from him."
The Rabbitohs sit in seventh spot on the ladder but will need Mitchell to stay fit if they're to book a spot in the finals.
South Sydney face five sides ahead of them on the ladder on the run home and have so far only won two of seven games against teams that started round 16 in the top eight.
Rabbitohs coach Jason Demetriou said he was pleased with Mitchell's decision.
"It shows a fair commitment from him to his teammates and to his club that he wants to perform here," he said.
"It shows a bit of respect to the Blues as well; after a great performance (in game two), he's confident that those guys can get the job done."
