Angus Crichton's sad reveal sparks outpouring of support around NRL world
The Sydney Roosters forward has taken an indefinite break from rugby league.
Angus Crichton has taken an indefinite break from rugby league after his father revealed on Thursday night that the Sydney Roosters forward has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Crichton's father said the 27-year-old second-rower, who has played State of Origin for NSW and for the Australian Kangaroos, was receiving treatment for the condition and was being fully supported.
In a statement provided to Nine News, Charlie Crichton said his son was taking a break from the NRL, while also requesting privacy. "Angus is under appropriate professional support and treatment for medically diagnosed bipolar disorder which he has been dealing with for some time," he said.
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"He is fully supported by his family, his management and the Sydney Roosters club as he works towards recovery. While no timeline has been set for his return to rugby league, we will continue to trust his medical team and know those within the rugby league community will respect his right to privacy."
According to leading NRL reporter James Hooper, Crichton will miss the Roosters' first two games of the season against the Dolphins and Warriors at the very least. Earlier this week, Roosters captain James Tedesco said he had been in contact with his teammate to offer support.
"It's important to. We've just been supporting him. He is going through some things at the moment." Tedesco said. "We can't really go into detail, but we're all supporting him and hopefully he can be back training.
"He is an important part of our team. He was one of the best back-rowers in the game last year so we miss him and want him out there playing with us."
Crichton has played 142 first grade games - 55 with South Sydney and 87 with the Roosters. He has played 11 State of Origin games for NSW and five Test matches for Australia, including as a part of the successful World Cup campaign last year.
The news of his diagnosis and break from the game has sparked a wave of support from NRL fans and commentators.
Sending love and strength to Angus Crichton and his family while he gets the support he needs. It was never anyones business why he was taking leave but I hope now that his family have come forward with the truth people can stop spreading harmful and baseless rumours.
— lavender baj (@lavosaurus) February 23, 2023
Really feeling for Angus Crichton & his family. Seems like a significant battle ahead but I hope they know how much support they have from us all. A reminder that mental health conditions do not discriminate & you NEVER know what’s going on in someone’s life from the surface
— Nat Sinclair (@nat_sinclair93) February 23, 2023
Thinking of Angus Crichton and his close friends and family during this incredibly difficult time. I truly hope Angus is getting the right treatment and can hopefully get a grasp on this horrible illness that too many suffer through. Mental illness simply does not discriminate.
— V (@TicsVitsJacThic) February 23, 2023
Really feeling for Angus Crichton right now. Mental health and mental disorders are so difficult to navigate let alone doing it in the public eye. It’s great to see he has the time and support he needs.
— Hann🌻🇺🇦 (@princess_hann_) February 23, 2023
Think some are really missing the significance of Angus Crichton’s Diagnosis and how debilitating it can be on your life. Really hope he gets all the support and help he needs in what is a really difficult time
— Dom 🏉 (@domsullivan18) February 23, 2023
I can only wish Angus Crichton @acrichton33 the very best in health, recovery & career. An outstanding player. #Respect
— Cam Sánchez (@CamMagicMan) February 23, 2023
Praying for Crichton. Terrible condition to live with, glad to hear he has support
— let's trot (@aussiedubsfan22) February 23, 2023
Joey Manu battling to be fit for Sydney Roosters
Meanwhile, Roosters centre Joey Manu remains in a race to be fit to face the Dolphins in the club's season opener on March 5. Manu suffered a facial fracture earlier this month after he was hit by an errant elbow at training.
After rushing in to make a tackle on teammate Junior Pauga, Manu immediately left the field and has since undergone surgery to fix the bone. "I felt it straight away. I was coming at speed and the impact hit it pretty hard," Manu said.
"Instantly I knew I had fractured my face. It felt the same. My ears were ringing. I felt the indent. It was pushed in. I just walked off the field and thought, I'm done. But after an hour or two I knew it wasn't as bad because I was out on the field just watching straight away."
Manu said he's hoping to be available for the season opener. "Obviously that's the goal, if not round one I'll be there for round two," he said.
"I am looking to get ready but I haven't done any contact yet. It's not ideal, I was looking forward to round one. But it feels alright."
Jared Waerea-Hargreaves (back) and Luke Keary (jaw) are both expected to be available for the match in a big boost for the tricolours.
Readers seeking support and information can contact Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.
with AAP
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