Origin 2022: Stephen Crichton wants a shot at State of Origin

With Latrell Mitchell all but ruled out of State of Origin I, NSW coach Brad Fittler is on the lookout for a new centre. Penrith star Stephen Crichton leads a long list of contenders.

NSW's Stephen Crichton during NSW State of Origin training at Morrie Breen Oval, Kanwal ahead of Origin Game 3. Picture: Brett Costello

He literally ran away with the premiership trophy – now Stephen Crichton wants to get his hands on a State of Origin jumper, and maybe even a lucrative new deal.

Crichton just might get his first wish, with incumbent centre Latrell Mitchell all but out of the Origin series-opener on 8 June with a hamstring injury.

The South Sydney star has been ruled out for eight weeks, which would result in him coming back just days after NSW host Queensland at Sydney Olympic Park.

Blues coach Brad Fittler has a plethora of options to fill the void, including former Penrith centre Matt Burton and South Sydney three-quarter Campbell Graham.

In-form Brisbane weapon Kotoni Staggs, Canberra five-eighth and current NSW utility Jack Wighton also have compelling cases.

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Stephen Crichton has had a taste of Origin camp, now he wants a Blue jersey of his own. Picture: Brett Costello

Sharks breakout star Siosifa Talakai also might have rocketed himself into contention with a remarkable first-half display in Thursday’s win over Manly.

But none are more driven than the Panthers’ premiership hero.

“It’s a massive motivation for myself,” Crichton said.

The undefeated reigning premiers could have up to six players be selected when Game I teams are picked after round 11, led by Nathan Cleary, Jarome Luai and Isaah Yeo.

Winger Brian To’o, who is currently injured but expected to be back by round 9, as well as second-rower Liam Martin, are also likely to be included.

Crichton wants to continue the Panthers’ flavour.

“I’m definitely stoked that those boys made it to the top. The next step for me to be pushing for it. Whatever happens, it should be good,” he said.

The 21-year-old recalled the valuable lessons he picked up when he spent time with the Blues squad that went down to the Maroons in the delayed 2020 campaign.

“That one Origin camp was a massive learning experience for me,” he said.

“Seeing how professional the boys are that were in that squad, just little things like stretching, ice baths, extra recovery... I’ve definitely added it to my game now.

“On my days off I’m doing extra just to feel good for game day, put my best foot forward, and have no regrets come game time.”

After finishing last season on the right wing for the Panthers, where he produced the grand final-deciding intercept, Crichton has shifted back to his natural right centre spot this season.

But he has no qualms stepping into Mitchell’s boots on the left, where he would likely form an all-Penrith left edge alongside Luai and To’o.

Crichton described their combination as one of the best in the game, beginning with Panthers co-captain Isaah Yeo in the middle of the field.

“Our spine is definitely one of the best, getting our edges the ball at the right time. That’s how smart and good our spine is,” he said.

“Yowie in particular, he knows when to play short, run and play at the back. It helps our edges get the ball at the right time.”

An Origin call-up would increase the value of Crichton, who can field offers from rival clubs when he enters the final year of his current deal in November.

And while he has yet to seriously consider his future, he welcomed Cleary’s decision to re-sign on a lower deal to give the club more cap space to keep the bulk of their squad.

“He’s one of the best players in the NRL,” Crichton said.

“If he did take a pay cut, everything that he gets, he deserves it. He doesn’t deserve anything less than what he’s on. It’s very exciting that him and (coach) Ivan (Cleary) re-signed.

“The club’s definitely in mad hands.

“I haven’t really thought too much about my future. I’ve just been leaving it up to my manager. I’ve just been trying to focus on my footy.”

Originally published as Origin 2022: Stephen Crichton wants a shot at State of Origin