Souths backrower Angus Crichton reveals Brad Fittler is analysing his weekly GPS data as he pushes for Origin selection
ANGUS Crichton has even more to play for this weekend after learning he’s under consideration for Brad Fittler’s team for Origin I.
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Freddie’s analysing you, NSW Origin candidates — just ask Souths back-rower Angus Crichton.
The star Rabbitoh revealed Blues coach Brad Fittler has requested access to his weekly GPS data in the NRL.
From tackles to running metres and hit ups, the NSW mentor is taking in every little detail in a bid to select his strongest Origin side.
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Crichton says it’s comforting to be on Fittler’s radar, but it also puts pressure on him to perform and justify the interest.
“It’s all well and good to be monitored by Freddie, but you don’t just want to be in the ballpark,” Crichton told The Daily Telegraph.
“I guess it is one thing to be talked about, but I think playing Origin is a whole different thing and you want to be in the team.
“You can’t get too excited about whispers and you’ve just to focus on playing your best footy here at club.
“But if I do get the call up, I’d be stoked and take it with both hands.”
Crichton says his Origin challenge starts with taming a determined North Queensland side featuring proven big boppers Matt Scott, Jason Taumalolo and Gavin Cooper in Townsville on Saturday night.
The Cowboys may be 14th on the ladder with three wins to their name, but Souths know they can’t be underestimated.
“We can’t forget that they were in a grand final last year,” Crichton said.
“They are capable of winning footy games and winning well.
“They’ve got a really classy side with the likes of JT and Gavin Cooper, who have played a lot of Origins together and won a grand final.
“We are going to have to be on top of our game to win.
“But competition is always good and it pushes you to be the best.”
You could forgive a player for being daunted by the likes of Taumalolo, but Crichton relishes the opportunity.
“I love it — that is why you play the game,” he said.
“You get excited coming up against those big forwards and big game players like JT and Taumalolo. They are the games you want to play in.
“You get the opportunity to play against greatness and you can see where you are on the spectrum — it’s a test for yourself.
“It’s not every day you get to play someone like Johnathan Thurston.”
Crichton also knows the privilege of playing for South Sydney is also on borrowed time.
It’s why he is desperate to depart Redfern on a high before leaving for the Roosters on a three-year deal at season’s end.
“I want to leave here winning a premiership for Souths,” he said.
“That is where my mindset is.”