LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Bulldogs teammates have made it clear that they reject claims suggesting skipper Stephen Crichton is a "grub." This comes after Crichton received a delayed charge for an incident involving Melbourne's Ryan Papenhuyzen, which had initially been overlooked by the match review committee.
Though Crichton initially faced no penalties, he was later issued a grade 1 contrary conduct charge on Monday, along with a potential $1000 fine should he choose to take an early guilty plea.
The timing of the charge is unrelated to the ARL Commission's new authority to send players directly to the judiciary; the NRL stated that it connects to a modification in the judicial code from 2022.
Crichton faced significant backlash in a column on Monday, where it was stated that he had evaded punishment for various incidents this season that deserved stricter consequences. Social media also reflected negative sentiments toward his aggressive playing style.
However, Bulldogs players have strongly defended Crichton, sharing insights into his upbringing that they believe shaped him into a respected leader within the sport. Team member Kurt Mann remarked, "He's not that type of person. His dad's a pastor and he's a man of God, so he's far from that type of person."
He also noted, "Regardless of what you do, you can't keep everyone happy."