breaking: canterbury bulldogs star stephen crichton inks new four-year contract with stunning agreement
in a massive boost for the canterbury-bankstown bulldogs, superstar centre stephen crichton has officially signed a new four-year deal that will keep him at the club until the end of the 2029 nrl season. the stunning agreement not only locks in one of the game’s brightest talents but also reflects the bulldogs’ long-term commitment to building a championship-contending side.
the announcement came early monday morning, sending shockwaves across the rugby league landscape. crichton, who joined the bulldogs from the penrith panthers in 2024, has been a pillar of consistency for the club in what has otherwise been an up-and-down season. his leadership, versatility, and elite skillset have made him a crucial figure in the club’s rebuild.
“we are absolutely thrilled to secure stephen for another four years,” said bulldogs general manager of football phil gould in a statement. “he is the type of player you can build a club around – talented, hardworking, and a great role model on and off the field.”
crichton, 24, has quickly become the face of the bulldogs franchise. since making the switch from penrith, he has been named captain on multiple occasions and has already amassed 10 tries, several assists, and countless match-defining moments in the blue and white. more than his stats, however, it is his presence that has elevated the team’s culture and on-field belief.
“i’m really excited to be staying at the bulldogs,” crichton said. “this club has big plans, and i want to be part of the journey to bring success back to the fans. it’s a special group of players, and i’ve felt at home from day one.”
the deal is believed to be one of the most lucrative contracts in the club’s recent history, reportedly valued at over $3 million across four years. it also includes leadership incentives and ambassadorial responsibilities, suggesting the bulldogs see crichton as more than just a player — but as a franchise cornerstone.
coach cameron ciraldo, who previously worked with crichton at penrith, welcomed the extension with enthusiasm. “stephen brings a winning mentality and professionalism to everything he does. he’s not just one of the best centres in the competition — he’s also evolving as a leader and a mentor to our younger players.”
the signing comes at a critical time for the bulldogs, who are currently pushing to return to finals contention after several lean years. securing a player of crichton’s calibre for the long term sends a clear message to fans, rivals, and potential recruits that canterbury is serious about rising back to the top.
the bulldogs have already made several smart roster moves in recent seasons, but locking in crichton could prove the most important yet. with a young core, strong coaching staff, and now a marquee player signed through 2029, the future at belmore looks brighter than it has in years.
as the bulldogs prepare for the next phase of their rebuild, one thing is certain — with stephen crichton leading the charge, belief is back at canterbury.
