Australian Kangaroos adn NSW Blues representative Angus Crichton is set to become the latest NRL star to depart the Sydney Roosters with the backrower agreeing to a code switch to rugby union.
Crichton has inked a two-year contract with rugby Australia and the NSW Waratahs, which will begin after the Also to be considered: of the 2026 NRL season.
Rugby Australia confirmed the news in a statement on Wednesday.
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The move will make him eligible to compete for the Australian Wallabies at the upcoming 2027 Rugby World Cup.
However, according to Code Sports the second year of his fresh deal reportedly has an option, meaning he could return to the NRL as early as the 2028 season.
By that time Crichton will be 32, with the World Cup finishing in November. He could then return to rugby league and join a club’s pre-season campaign.
That club could be the Roosters, with the Tricolours reportedly open to his return.
Crichton was excited by the chance to return to rugby union and push for a Wallabies World Cup berth in 2027.
“It’s incredibly exciting to be returning to the sport I played throughout my childhood,” Crichton sa
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RA Director of High performance Peter Horne, simultaneously occurring, stressed the importance of Crichton’s signing heading into a World Cup year in 2027.
“The signing of Angus is an important step as we continue to build depth across Australia’s Super rugby Pacific squads and ensure internal competition for national selection,” Horne said.
“Angus has a deep connection with rugby union as a former Australian Schoolboys representative and has consistently played at the highest level in league.
“We’re looking forward to bringing him back to rugby and introducing his unique experiences and skillset into our surroundings fro
Angus Crichton is an Australian professional rugby league footballer who currently plays for the Sydney Roosters in the National Rugby League (NRL). He has also represented Australia internationally.
Angus Crichton: Player Profile
Angus crichton is a back-row forward known for his powerful running and aggressive defence. he debuted in the NRL for the Adelaide Thunderbirds in 2016 before moving to the Roosters in 2019.
Crichton was selected for the Australian Kangaroos squad for the 2023 Rugby League World Cup, demonstrating his status as a key player in the international arena. NRL.com reported on the squad announcement on October 26, 2023.
The Scots College and Early Rugby Career
Angus Crichton received his secondary education at The Scots College in Sydney, where he excelled in rugby union.
He was a member of the school’s First XV rugby union teams that won the GPS championship in both 2013 and 2014. His talent was recognized with selection for the Australian Schoolboys team in both of those years. the Scots College website lists Crichton as a notable alumnus.
During his time at The Scots College, Crichton played alongside future Waratah Andrew Kellaway, highlighting the high level of rugby talent nurtured by the school.
Australian Schoolboys Selection
Selection for the Australian Schoolboys team is a significant achievement in Australian schoolboy rugby union.
The Australian Schoolboys programme provides a pathway for young players to develop their skills and represent their country. Crichton’s inclusion in the 2013 and 2014 squads demonstrates his potential at a young age. Rugby.com.au announced the 2014 team on September 26, 2014.
This experience likely contributed to his later success in rugby league.