Google Favourites<\/a>\u00a0for nonstop RUCK content!<\/p>\nThe former Australian Schoolboys representative will make the switch back to the 15-a-side game after a decorated decade in the NRL with the South Sydney Rabbitohs and Sydney Roosters, where he established himself as one of the competition\u2019s leading forwards and earned both State of Origin and international honours.<\/p>\n
Now 29, Crichton is set to link up with the Waratahs ahead of the 2027 Super Rugby Pacific season, with his return to rugby union aligning with Australia\u2019s preparations for the home Rugby World Cup later that year. He will be eligible to push for Wallabies selection as part of that campaign.<\/p>\n
A product of The Scots College, Crichton was a key member of the school\u2019s GPS premiership-winning sides in 2013 and 2014 and earned Australian Schoolboys selection in both seasons. His junior rugby pathway included lining up alongside future Wallaby Andrew Kellaway.<\/p>\n
Crichton said the opportunity to return to the sport of his youth carried special significance.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s incredibly exciting to be returning to the sport I played throughout my childhood.<\/p>\n
\u201cGrowing up in Young, I have great memories driving up on buses to Canberra with the other farmers and their families for the Tahs-Brumbies game every year. To have a chance to play in the same Waratahs jersey as Lote Tuqiri, my favourite Rugby player as a kid, is something special. I grew up with a Wallabies jersey and poster on the wall and my dream was to one day represent them.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019m in a position in 2027 to pursue that dream and I would like to thank Rugby Australia and the Waratahs for the opportunity, while also acknowledging and showing gratitude for the wonderful career I\u2019ve had in the NRL.<\/p>\n
\u201cI am pleased to have confirmed my plans for beyond this season and look forward to fully focusing on the campaign ahead with my team mates and family at the Roosters.\u201d<\/p>\n
Rugby Australia Chief Executive Phil Waugh said Crichton\u2019s return was timely as the game builds toward a landmark year.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe are thrilled to be bringing Angus back to rugby ahead of a momentous 2027 season, highlighted by a once-in-a-generation home Rugby World Cup.<\/p>\n
\u201cAngus excelled as a rugby player through the schoolboy and junior ranks and we believe he will make a strong contribution to the performance and culture of Australian Rugby.<\/p>\n
\u201cHe has developed into an elite talent and leader in rugby league and now has the opportunity to showcase his talent on the unique global platform that rugby provides.\u201d<\/p>\n
Rugby Australia\u2019s Director of High Performance Peter Horne said the signing aligned with broader plans to strengthen depth across the professional pathway.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe signing of Angus is an important step as we continue to build depth across Australia\u2019s Super Rugby Pacific squads and ensure internal competition for national selection.<\/p>\n
\u201cAngus has a deep connection with rugby union as a former Australian Schoolboys representative and has consistently played at the highest level in league.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019re looking forward to bringing him back to rugby and introducing his unique experiences and skillset into our environment from next season.\u201d<\/p>\n
Waratahs Head Coach Dan McKellar welcomed the addition of Crichton to his 2027 squad.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019re pleased to add someone of Angus\u2019 calibre to the Waratahs for 2027. He\u2019s the ultimate professional who will bring a high level of physicality and edge to the group. With his rugby union background, I\u2019m sure he\u2019ll be able to adapt quickly and will be raring to go when he arrives.\u201d<\/p>\n
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