NRL Star Angus Crichton Poised for Dramatic Code Switch to Rugby Union
In a significant development for both rugby codes, Sydney Roosters forward Angus Crichton is expected to depart the NRL and defect to rugby union after the conclusion of the current season. The move is driven by his ambition to secure a place at the 2027 Rugby World Cup, which will be hosted in Australia.
Contract Situation and Imminent Signing
Crichton, who is in the final season of his contract with the Roosters, is set to follow in the footsteps of his teammate Mark Nawaqanitawase, who has already made the transition to the 15-man code. Rugby Australia is anticipated to confirm Crichton's signing in the very near future, marking a major coup for the union side.
The 29-year-old has been linked with potential moves to rugby union throughout his illustrious 198-game NRL career, with speculation particularly intense when his contract last came up for renewal in 2024. At that time, Crichton ultimately opted to sign a new two-year deal with the Tricolours but had consistently expressed openness to a future code switch.
Path to the Wallabies and Super Rugby
Upon making the switch, Crichton is slated to join the NSW Waratahs in the Super Rugby Pacific competition. This move would position him strongly for potential selection in the Wallabies squad for next year's home World Cup, providing a clear pathway to achieve his international ambitions.
At the Waratahs, Crichton will reunite with former Roosters teammate Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, who made a highly-publicised move to rugby union in 2024. This reunion adds an intriguing dynamic to the Tahs' roster and highlights the growing trend of NRL stars crossing codes.
Background and Career Achievements
A graduate of the prestigious Scots College, a famous rugby school, Crichton was a standout union star during his schoolboy days before switching to the NRL. He made his debut with South Sydney Rabbitohs and later joined the Roosters, where he won the 2019 premiership in his very first season with the club.
At his peak, Crichton has established himself as one of the NRL's most formidable and damaging second-rowers. He enjoyed an exceptionally strong 2024 campaign, which saw him earn a recall to the NSW State of Origin team. That season, he was awarded both the Brad Fittler Medal as the Blues' best player and the Dally M second-rower of the year award.
This remarkable comeback followed a mental health break that delayed the start of his 2023 season, underscoring his resilience and determination to return to top form.
Roosters' Contract Landscape
Crichton's departure is part of a broader contract situation at the Roosters, with several other high-profile players also coming off contract after this season. Notable names include Daly Cherry-Evans, Siua Wong, and Daniel Tupou, indicating a period of potential transition for the club.
The decision to switch codes represents a full-circle moment for Crichton, returning to the rugby union roots he excelled in as a schoolboy. It also signals a significant shift in his professional trajectory as he seeks to make an impact on the global stage at the 2027 World Cup.
