LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs have confirmed captain Stephen Crichton's playing status ahead of their semi-final matchup against the Penrith Panthers on Sunday afternoon.
Initially included among the reserves, there was speculation that Crichton might make a remarkable comeback after suffering an ankle injury last week. However, this hope has not materialized, and he has officially been ruled out of the impending match.
While Crichton will not be participating in Sunday's match, a decision regarding winger Marcelo Montoya remains pending. Montoya missed last week's game due to an injury sustained in the last round of the 2025 regular season.
If Montoya is cleared to play, rookie Jethro Rinakama is the likely candidate to be left out of the lineup. Additionally, Blake Wilson, Jake Turpin, and Samuel Hughes are listed as reserves.