LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Bullldogs coach Cameron Ciraldo has robustly defended his captain, Stephen Crichton, after the NRL intervened to issue him a contrary conduct charge. Ciraldo described Crichton as "one of the most upstanding characters in the game."
This scrutiny followed the match review committee's failure to charge Crichton for an incident involving Storm fullback Ryan Papenhuyzen. During the match, Crichton was seen running his hands across Papenhuyzen's face last Thursday night.
Critics suggested that Crichton had previously evaded punishment for similar conduct, prompting the NRL to apply a 2022 change in the judicial code to charge him. The consequence for this charge is a fine of $1,000.
Following his teammates' defense, who contended that Crichton was being unfairly labeled a "grub," Ciraldo noted that there are often "five, six or seven" such incidents each week and emphasized that Crichton is highly regarded by both teammates and opponents.
"I think it's ridiculous. He's one of the most upstanding characters in the game, so well respected among his teammates and opposition players," Ciraldo remarked in anticipation of Thursday's match against Penrith.
"Yes, he goes out and competes hard, but that's what we love about him and what everyone respects. I don't think I need to respond too much more than that."
Ciraldo further added, "That incident from the weekend, when you watch all the games of footy, you see five, six seven of those types of incidents. If journalists want to report on them, you might find a few more charges handed out."