LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
In Round 27, Phoenix Crossland found himself on the sideline alongside veterans Tyson Frizell and Dane Gagai, feeling slightly out of place as a young player being rested for the finals, as reported by newcastleknights.com.au.
Originally, Crossland had expected to spend 2023 coming off the bench and filling in wherever needed, so watching the Knights' rookies take charge from the stands was a surreal experience for him.
Throughout his early career, Crossland has struggled to find consistency on the field, often being used as a utility player off the bench and playing in various positions such as hooker and in the halves.
However, when Jayden Brailey suffered an ACL injury in April, Adam O'Brien turned to Crossland, a Knights junior, to step in and fill the void.
This opportunity has transformed Crossland from being a Mr.
Fix-It to becoming the first-choice hooker for the team.