Crichton confident body will be up to Origin if picked
Scott Bailey |
Angus Crichton is confident his body would be up to the rigours of State of Origin if NSW coach Brad Fittler brings him straight back into the Blues team.
Crichton made his return for the Sydney Roosters on Anzac Day, playing his first game in the NRL this season after being diagnosed with bipolar disorder during the summer.
After getting through one reserve grade game in the lead up, Crichton played 65 minutes in the Roosters’ 27-26 win over St George Illawarra, with 28 tackles and limited involvement in attack.
Crichton expects it will take another month for him to reach full match fitness and return to his best.
And while he is insistent Origin is not on his mind, he is confident he will be fit enough to be able to play for the Blues in Adelaide on May 31 if called upon.
“I have been there a number of times and know what is expected,” Crichton said.
“I would do whatever I need to do if I get picked.
“I’m just continually working on my cardio and strength. I don’t want to rush it or push myself and put crazy expectations on myself.
“I’ll just keep chipping away at it every week.”
Crichton’s availability is a massive boost for the Blues in the back row.
Liam Martin has had a disrupted start to the season at Penrith through injuries, while South Sydney’s potential debutant Keaon Koloamatangi is also sidelined.
Rabbitohs’ Cameron Murray could play on one edge and Manly’s Haumole Olakau’atu is pushing for a debut off the bench, but Crichton would be a first-choice starter for NSW if back to his best.
Crichton said he had been in contact with Fittler throughout his time away from rugby league.
“I’m not even thinking about Origin at the minute,” Crichton said.
“There are some really good players putting their hands up that are in peak condition. If he wants me to go into camp I will be in there for sure.
“But my focus right now is just on getting my fitness right and making sure I can play the best football I can for the Roosters.”
AAP
