In the aftermath of the Wallabies’ humiliating exit from the World Cup, Rugby Australia have sent a two-year, $1.6m offer to lure NRL star Angus Crichton to the 15-man game.
Rugby Australia officials on Wednesday sent an offer to Crichton’s management which detailed a package deal between the governing body and Super Rugby franchise the Western Force. The deal is for 2024 and 2025.
The move comes amid criticism of Rugby Australia following a disastrous World Cup campaign and this masthead’s revelation that coach Eddie Jones conducted an interview with Japanese Rugby just days before the start of the tournament.
Crichton was overnight on a plane to France to watch friends play at the Rugby World Cup and isn’t due back until the end of October.
Crichton is contracted with the Sydney Roosters until the end of 2024 on a deal worth around $675,000 in the NRL, but has been given the club’s blessing to explore a future in the game where he made a name for himself in high school.
As a former Australian schoolboys and first XV star with prestigious Sydney private school, Scots College, Crichton’s name has long been linked with a return to the 15-man game.
Angus Crichton could be off to rugby union next year.Credit: Getty
After landing the prized signature of Joseph Suaalii earlier in the year, RA chairman Hamish McLennan was vocal in identifying Crichton and South Sydney captain Cameron Murray as future targets.
After missing out on Murray, who has re-signed with the Rabbitohs until 2028, McLennan is working hard behind the scenes to secure Crichton’s offer.
