The Sydney Roosters are poised to see a third player depart for rugby union by the end of 2024, as Angus Crichton is expected to follow Joseph Suaalii and Joseph Manu’s footsteps.
According to The Daily Telegraph, Crichton will join Manu in French rugby once his contract with the Roosters concludes in November.
Last season, Crichton was reportedly in talks for a two-year contract with Rugby Australia and The Western Force, valued at $800,000. However, the deal fell through.
Amidst the upheaval following the Wallabies’ World Cup elimination and coach Eddie Jones’ departure from the national team, Rugby Australia withdrew their offer to Angus Crichton.
David Rawlings, Crichton’s agent, expressed concerns about the state of the game, echoing the sentiments of many rugby enthusiasts. Rawlings referred to comments made by Jones, the head coach, as further validation of their apprehension.
However, Rawlings emphasized that they have moved past this setback, and Crichton is now focused on the upcoming pre-season with the Roosters.
It’s believed that Joseph Suaalii’s lucrative three-year, $4.5 million deal with the Wallabies played a role in Rugby Australia’s decision to retract the offer made to Crichton.
Manu was previously rumored to be considering a short-term contract in Japanese rugby before reuniting with the Roosters. However, it now appears likely that he will opt for a lucrative multi-year deal in France.
Given his eligibility status, Manu cannot represent the All Blacks, and it seems improbable at this stage that Crichton will be able to play for the Wallabies while based in France.
With 34 tries in 154 NRL appearances for both the Rabbitohs and Roosters, as well as 11 Origin appearances for NSW and five Tests for the Kangaroos, Manu boasts an impressive rugby league resume.
While Crichton’s performance dipped slightly last season, he remains resolute in his desire to secure a second premiership with the Roosters, having clinched his first in 2019, the year he joined the club.
Despite reportedly impressing at pre-season training, the Roosters are unable to extend a new contract to Crichton due to salary cap constraints, primarily stemming from the need to upgrade deals for several young talents.
Crichton, who previously played rugby union at Scots College, has long been rumored to be considering a return to the 15-man code.
BRONCOS HOOKER SET TO INK EXTENSION
Broncos’ hooker Billy Walters is reportedly on the verge of signing a contract extension that will keep him with the club until the conclusion of the 2026 season.
This announcement comes as a welcome development for Broncos supporters, following recent contract extensions for five-eighth Ezra Mam, who secured a five-year deal, and halfback Adam Reynolds, expected to prolong his tenure by another year.
With Walters, Mam, Reynolds, and fullback Reece Walsh all under contract for 2024 and 2025, the Broncos are assembling a formidable spine as they set their sights on another shot at reaching the grand final.
Pete Badel of The Courier Mail reported that extension discussions with Walters have already commenced. 2023 proved to be a standout year for Walters, a seasoned player with 61 appearances, and the son of Broncos coach Kevin Walters.
Having faced adversity with a knee injury during his time with the Tigers, Walters was given an opportunity by the Broncos and has since made significant contributions to the team.
While Walters currently holds the starting position at hooker, the Broncos boast a depth of talent behind him, including Tyson Smoothy, Cory Paix, and young sensation Blake Mozer.
According to Broncos assistant coach Matt Ballin, Walters has impressed consistently. Ballin remarked, “When I initially joined the club, it was his debut year, and he had experience playing both five-eighth at Wests Tigers and hooker.” He added, “What I’ve observed is Billy’s dedication to his defensive duties.”
Ballin emphasized the demanding nature of the hooker role, noting the continuous fatigue players experience throughout the game. He highlighted Walters’ defensive commitment, stating, “The most notable aspect is his willingness to tackle relentlessly, striving to prevent opposition from gaining an edge, and his dedication to supporting his teammates.”
TWO CLUBS INTERESTED IN ROOSTER AFTER BULLDOGS SNUB
According to The Daily Telegraph, Terrell May, a forward for the Roosters whose contract expires at the end of this season, is attracting attention from the Sharks and Dragons. May’s agent, David Rawlings, is said to be considering offers from other clubs.
This development follows reports that the Bulldogs have withdrawn from pursuing May due to stalled talks. While the Roosters remain in a favorable position to retain the 24-year-old, increased interest from other teams could potentially raise the asking price and pose challenges in retaining him.
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