Rugby Australia will make another foray into the NRL, with Sydney Roosters backrower Angus Crichton offered $1.6 million to switch codes.
It follows the Wallabies’ embarrassing exit from the World Cup in the group stages for the first time.
Crichton, 27, was a rugby star at Scots College in Sydney before signing for the Rabbitohs when he finished high school.
He then joined the Tricolors in 2019 and won a premiership under Trent Robinson.
The $1.6 million ARU contract is expected to last between 2024 and 2025.
Rugby Australia to raid the NRL again, with Roosters backrower Angus Crichton (right) given $1.6 million reasons to switch codes
It follows the Wallabies’ humiliating exit from the World Cup in the group stage for the first time (photo, coach Eddie Jones)
His current contract with the Roosters – which expires next year – is valued at $675,000 per season.
The Roosters are not expected to stand in Crichton’s way as he seeks a new sporting challenge in the 15-a-side game.
Extending boom rookie Siua Wong and front rower Terrell May would be a priority, and if Crichton seeks release it would help the Tricolors retain the talented pair.
Crichton was also diagnosed with bipolar disorder in February and was sidelined until April.
If Crichton leaves the NRL, he will not play for the NSW Waratahs with current teammate Joseph Suaalii, who has signed a monster $1.6 million per season contract with the ARU from 2025.
It is understood Crichton will instead feature 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 will be heading to Western Australia next season.