The Sydney Roosters find themselves in the midst of an internal drama as star player Angus Crichton has expressed discontent following the signing of Titans captain David Fifita. Crichton’s future with the club now hangs in the balance, leading to a public and vocal showdown that has seen his teammates rallying around him.
Crichton, a standout performer this season, has made it clear that he is unwilling to play second fiddle to Fifita, who is set to join the Roosters in 2025. Fifita’s arrival is expected to impact Crichton’s preferred position in the left second-row spot, where he has excelled throughout the year. This development has left Crichton’s future at the Roosters uncertain and sparked significant speculation about his next move.
Following the Roosters’ recent victory over the Warriors, Crichton voiced his frustration, revealing that the club had yet to discuss his future with him. His dissatisfaction stems from the perceived lack of communication and clarity about his role moving forward. The situation has also reignited rumors of Crichton’s potential return to rugby union, a sport he played in his youth. Additionally, NRL powerhouse Penrith has emerged as a potential suitor for Crichton, especially after their unsuccessful attempt to sign Fifita.
Teammates have largely been supportive of Crichton, though many remain tight-lipped about the specifics of the situation. Star forward Victor Radley, a close ally of Crichton, was full of praise for his teammate. “I love Angus,” Radley said. “He’s kind of the benchmark back-rower this season, especially this last month. You obviously want to keep him. That’s up to the club and Angus to deal with. For the meantime, I just want to see him be his best, which he’s been doing.”
Terrell May, a prominent front-rower for the Roosters, spoke highly of Crichton’s influence on him since joining the club. “When I first came here, he was one of the boys that I looked up to,” May said. “I love Angus, and I wish he stays, but obviously, no one wants to be second to anyone. I hope he does what’s best for him, and like I said, I got a lot of love for that dude.”
Winger Dom Young added that the team would understand if Crichton decided to leave for better opportunities. “You’ve got to do what’s best for yourself because it’s a business at the end of the day,” Young commented. “I wouldn’t hold any grudge against him. Hopefully, there’s a way we can figure out for him to stay as well.”
Victor Radley also expressed hope that Crichton would be considered for a NSW State of Origin recall, given his resurgent form this season. Crichton, who last represented the Blues in 2022, has been seen as a viable option due to his versatility and ability to play multiple positions. “He definitely should be there,” Radley asserted. “He’s been so hard to handle, he’s done it before, he’s obviously the Australian back-rower at the World Cup. He’s world-class. He should be there I think.”
As the Roosters navigate this turbulent period, the support from Crichton’s teammates highlights the high regard in which he is held within the squad. The resolution of this drama will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike, as it could significantly impact the team’s dynamics and performance moving forward.
