What’s The Buzz: Future of Roosters star Angus Crichton up in the air amid contract uncertainty

The future of star forward Angus Crichton is a touchy subject around Bondi way, with rival clubs sure to be on alert following a huge contract revelation, writes Phil Rothfield.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 25: Angus Crichton of the Roosters looks dejected after defeat during the round seven NRL match between the St George Illawarra Dragons and the Sydney Roosters at Sydney Cricket Ground, on April 25, 2022, in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Mark Kolbe/Getty Images)

The future of NSW State of Origin forward Angus Crichton at the Sydney Roosters is uncertain despite reports last year he had signed a two-year extension.

The truth is no contract has been signed or registered with the NRL.

It’s a touchy subject at the Roosters because Crichton has had a slow start to the season.

Watch every game of Magic Round next weekend Live & Ad-Break Free In Play on Kayo. New to Kayo? Try 14-days free now >

Angus Crichton is understood to have been asked to take a substantial pay cut.

He was seen at training last week in an animated conversation with coach Trent Robinson.

Crichton is managed by David Rawlings who was keen to play it down when we spoke on Friday.

“We don’t do business and play it out in the media,” he said.

“There’s still a couple of bits and pieces to be finalised around the contract before we get to the final position. We’ll see how it plays along.”

It is understood the new offer involves a substantial pay cut to free up money for the signing of Brandon Smith.

On his day, there are few more destructive edge forwards in the NRL.

However, like many of his teammates, Crichton has struggled this season.

He has been criticised for lacking energy and aggression with his defence.

Crichton has always been linked to a possible return to rugby union to play for the Wallabies at next year’s World Cup in France. He is still just 26.

Like most of the Roosters forwards, Angus Crichton has struggled for form this season.

Yet the cash-strapped rah-rahs probably wouldn’t have the funds available to match what he can earn in the NRL.

Crichton quit the South Sydney Rabbitohs in 2018 to join the Roosters and become one of the highest paid forwards in the game.

No doubt rival NRL clubs will now reach out, knowing he’s not actually locked down at the Roosters.