Rugby Australia are set to again raid the NRL, with Sydney Roosters backrower Angus Crichton to be offered $1.6million to switch codes.
It follows the Wallabies’ embarrassing exit from the World Cup in the group stage for the first time.
Crichton, 27, was a schoolboy rugby star at the Scots College in Sydney before signing for the Rabbitohs when he finished high school.
He then joined the Tricolours in 2019 and won a premiership under Trent Robinson.
The $1.6million ARU contract is believed to be for 2024 and 2025.
Rugby Australia are set to again raid the NRL, with Roosters backrower Angus Crichton (right) to be offered $1.6million reasons to switch codes
![](https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2023/09/28/04/75919763-12569317-image-m-59_1695872422049.jpg)
It follows the Wallabies’ humiliating exit from the World Cup in the group stage for the first time (pictured, coach Eddie Jones)
His current deal with the Roosters – which ends next year – is believed to be $675,000 per season.
The Roosters are not tipped to stand in Crichton’s way if he seeks a new sporting challenge in the 15-a-side game.
Extending boom rookie Siua Wong and front-rower Terrell May are said to be a priority, and if Crichton seeks a release, it would help the Tricolours keep the talented pair.
Crichton was also diagnosed with bipolar disorder in February and was sidelined until April.
If Crichton does leave the NRL, he won’t be playing for the NSW Waratahs with current teammate Joseph Suaalii, who has inked a monster $1.6million per season deal with the ARU from 2025.
It is understood Crichton will instead turn out for the Western Force in the Super Rugby Pacific competition under highly regarded coach Simon Cron.
Wallabies halfback Nic White and five-eighth Ben Donaldson are two big names who have confirmed they are heading to Western Australia next season.
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