what happened to angus crichton
Angus Crichton, the prominent Australian rugby league player, made headlines recently by announcing his departure from the NRL's Sydney Roosters at the end of the 2026 season to return to his roots in rugby union. He's signed a two- year deal with Rugby Australia and the NSW Waratahs starting in 2027, chasing a spot in the 2027 Rugby World Cup hosted in Australia.
Career Shift Details
This code-switch marks a full-circle moment for the 29-year-old second-rower, who began in rugby union before thriving in the NRL with stints at South Sydney Rabbitohs and Roosters, where he notched 198 games, state honors with NSW Blues, and international caps. Reports emerged in September 2025 about his potential exit, but it solidified in January 2026 with official confirmation from Rugby Australia—positioning him alongside other high-profile cross-code talents like Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii.
Crichton himself framed it as a "now or never" decision, citing his age and lifelong union aspirations during past contract talks.
Past Challenges
Crichton's journey hasn't been without hurdles. In February 2023, he took indefinite leave from the Roosters after a bipolar disorder diagnosis, a brave step shared publicly by his father, emphasizing family and club support during recovery. He staged an emotional return by April 2023, earning accolades like the Brad Fittler Medal and Dally M second-rower honors that year—proving his resilience on and off the field.
Fan and Forum Buzz
Online discussions lit up forums like Reddit's r/RugbyAustralia and LeagueUnlimited, with fans debating his union potential ("How'd we lose him initially?") and NRL impact ("Ultimate professional"). Some speculate European or Japanese opportunities post-2028, while others hail it as a World Cup boost for the Waratahs under coach Dan McKellar.
"If I don't do it now... it probably won't happen." – Angus Crichton on his code switch
Key Timeline:
- 2023: Bipolar diagnosis and leave; triumphant return.
- 2025: Roosters extension with union whispers.
- Jan 2026: Official Waratahs signing announced.
- End 2026: Final NRL season.
- 2027+: Rugby union era begins.
What's Next?
As of March 2026, Crichton's wrapping his NRL chapter amid Roosters' free- agency shuffle (e.g., Daniel Tupou). Trending chatter focuses on his Wallabies fit and mental health advocacy legacy—no major injuries or scandals reported lately.
TL;DR: Crichton’s thriving, swapping NRL for rugby union in 2027 with Waratahs—healthier, hungrier, and World Cup-bound.
Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.