LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Canterbury Bulldogs captain Stephen Crichton is close to finalizing a significant $5 million extension, indicating his desire to spend the remainder of his career at Belmore. This development comes as the Bulldogs prepare for their match against the Melbourne Storm, marking the commencement of the 2025 NRL Finals series.
With this contract, Crichton is positioned to be one of the highest-paid athletes in the league, effectively making him less appealing to competing teams. He is widely acknowledged as the leading centre in the NRL, and reports from News Corp suggest that he is on the brink of sealing a $5 million contract that will extend his stay with the Bulldogs until the end of 2030.
Crichton's worth transcends his athletic prowess; as a 12-time NSW Blues representative and Samoan international, he brings notable leadership qualities, which led to him being appointed as captain just months after his arrival at the club.
During the NRL Finals launch on Monday, Crichton expressed enthusiasm about his contract prospects, stating his intent to remain with the Blue and White for the long haul. "Hopefully, if I get the opportunity to stay, I can. Hopefully, the big dog Gus signs me on," he articulated in an interview with Zero Tackle.
Although Crichton debuted in the NRL in 2019, he is still only 24 years old and has yet to hit his prime.