Stephen Crichton has solidified his future with the Canterbury Bulldogs, signing a significant contract extension that will see him remain with the club until 2031. This new deal comes despite having two years remaining on his existing contract, marking what general manager Phil Gould described as a pivotal moment for the Bulldogs.
Since joining the team at the beginning of last season, Crichton has been instrumental in driving Canterbury’s rise in the league and transforming them into genuine contenders for the championship. Recognised as one of the premier centres in rugby league at just 25 years old, this extension allows him to experience the peak of his career at Belmore.
Gould praised Crichton’s leadership qualities, noting that he has quickly evolved into one of the most commendable captains since arriving at the Bulldogs. Under his guidance, the team has reached consecutive finals for the first time in ten years, significantly influencing both players and staff alike. Gould expressed hope that Crichton will finish his career with the Bulldogs, potentially becoming one of the club’s greatest captains.
Crichton, who previously secured three premierships with the Penrith Panthers, is optimistic about the Bulldogs’ future. He expressed his gratitude for being part of the club and acknowledged the support he has received from Gould and coach Cameron Ciraldo. While he celebrates the strides the team has made over the last two years, he is driven by a desire for even greater success.
The Bulldogs faced a challenging end to their season as Crichton suffered an ankle injury during the qualifying final loss against the Melbourne Storm, which left a noticeable gap in the team’s performance as they exited in the following round against the Panthers.
To date, Crichton boasts significant experience, including 12 matches for New South Wales and eight for Samoa, alongside 142 first-grade games. His commitment to Canterbury reflects not only his personal aspirations but also his dedication to the club and its community. He has made it clear that the Bulldogs is now his home, and he is eager to contribute to their legacy of success.