Angus Crichton to switch codes with Waratahs deal

Rugby Australia and the NSW Waratahs have confirmed the signing of Angus Crichton on a two-year deal, with the former NRL international set to return to rugby union from the start of the 2027 Super Rugby Pacific season.

Crichton, who will turn 31 in early 2027, makes the switch after a highly successful career in rugby league with the Sydney Roosters and South Sydney Rabbitohs, where he established himself as a State of Origin player and international representative.

The back-rower will be available for selection with the Waratahs as Australia builds towards hosting the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

A graduate of The Scots College, Crichton has strong rugby union roots. He represented Australian Schoolboys in 2013 and 2014 and was part of GPS title-winning teams during his school years, playing alongside future Wallabies such as Andrew Kellaway.

Crichton said the move fulfilled a long-held ambition to return to the sport he played growing up, while also acknowledging his decade-long career in the NRL. He confirmed his focus remains on finishing his current league commitments strongly before making the transition.

“Growing 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.

“I'm 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've had in the NRL".