Latrell Mitchell has laid down the gauntlet to New Zealand centre Dane Gagai as they prepare to renew hostilities in next Thursday’s IRL Rugby League World Cup opener.

The Kangaroos will take on the Kiwis at Allianz Stadium, the same venue Mitchell and Gagai squared up in the opening week of the NRL finals series.

Gagai claimed a points decision in a heated battle as the Knights knocked South Sydney out of the competition.

It’s a battle Mitchell hasn’t forgotten and he’s desperate to turn the tables next Thursday night.

Latrell Mitchell and Dane Gagai engaged in a heated battle during the NRL finals series. Picture: NRL Photos

“Let’s go,” Mitchell said. “Dane’s a competitor, I’m a competitor and let’s leave it all out there on the field.

“I love it, he’s a good man and when you walk off you know you’ve done everything you can to try and win the game. I’d love to get it over Gags, I wish him the best but I’m definitely ready.”

Mitchell is preparing to play for Australia for the first time since the 2022 World Cup, in which he starred as the Kangaroos took out the title.

Plenty has changed since then, with New Zealand, Tonga and Samoa developing into international powerhouses.

Personally, Mitchell has endured some ups and downs with injuries limiting his ability to represent his country.

Even this year it looked as though the centre would not have the opportunity play for the Kangaroos as he battled a debilitating nerve injury.

After spending three and a half months on the sidelines, Mitchell returned to the field in Round 26 and is relishing the chance to feature in the World Cup.

Latrell Mitchell is preparing to play for Australia for the first time since the 2022 World Cup. Picture: NRL Photos.

“You want to be playing at the highest level all the time,” he said. “Even at club level you don’t want to be on the sidelines. For me, it’s about being proud and focusing on what’s ahead.

“This is the most prestigious [jersey] you can wear, you’re representing your country. I’ve always loved it. A few years ago we won the cup, I’d love to do it again.”

Mitchell’s positional battle with Gagai comes as the 35-year-old prepares to make his New Zealand debut.

Gagai played seven Tests for Australia in 2017-18 but was granted approval by the IRL last week to switch his eligibility to the Kiwis.

The veteran has enjoyed a career renaissance this year and played a key role in the Knights unexpected run to the NRL grand final.

Mitchell was not surprised to see his former South Sydney teammate turn back the clock and said he will have to be at his best to shut Gagai down on Thursday night.

“He’s winding back the clock,” Mitchell said. “He’s showed he’s got another two or three years in him.

“He just never stops talking. He never goes away and he’s very fit. I’m very competitive so I can’t let the [battles] go either.”

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