Penrith’s Stephen Crichton told the club he will move on at season’s end at a key meeting with Panthers powerbrokers on Monday.
Crichton’s future has been in the spotlight for some time and he brought it to a head by telling Penrith officials and teammates that the 2023 season will be his last at his junior club.
Stephen Crichton is set to move on from Penrith.Credit:Getty
Canterbury coach Cameron Ciraldo, a former Panthers coach, has been a frontrunner for his signature given the added lure of playing fullback, which is blocked at Penrith by Clive Churchill medallist Dylan Edwards.
Penrith confirmed the news with a statement that said, “Contrary to media reports, the club made a substantial offer in May 2022 for Stephen to remain at the Panthers”.
“Although Panthers is disappointed by the outcome, the club respects Stephen’s decision, and understands the situation is exacerbated by salary cap pressure based on the club’s recent success,” Panthers Rugby League CEO Matt Cameron said.
“The club thanks Stephen for his efforts and is looking forward to seeing him represent the Panthers for the remainder of the 2023 NRL season.”
Crichton will see out the season with Penrith and play a key role in their bid for a third-straight title.
“It was the hardest decision to make, but now my full focus is on the 2023 season and finishing my time at Panthers as strong as I can,” he said.
“It’s going to be tough to leave my teammates, but we will have our chance to make more memories this year. I know my friendships at Panthers won’t finish here but will last forever.”
More to come.
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