The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs have officially announced Stephen Crichton as their captain for the 2024 NRL season. Crichton, who joined the Bulldogs after leaving the Penrith Panthers, will lead the team in his first season at the club. The decision comes after discussions between head coach Cameron Ciraldo and last year’s co-captains, Reed Mahoney and Matt Burton, who both agreed that Crichton’s leadership and energy make him the right fit for the role.
Crichton’s appointment is a significant moment for the Bulldogs, as they look to build a winning culture with their new recruits. Ciraldo highlighted Crichton’s ability to lift team morale and his strong communication skills during pre-season as key reasons for his selection. Crichton himself emphasized his desire to lead by example, drawing on his experience from his successful tenure with the Panthers
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The Mole: Secret recruit behind incredible Bulldogs rise from defensive battlers to leaders
A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt grand master is the secret ingredient behind the Bulldogs’ stunning premiership charge in 2024.
The man club insiders credit largely for the turnaround is Alex Prates, who has joined the club as wrestling coach.
In less than 12 months, the Bulldogs have gone from the NRL’s worst defensive team to the best, thanks largely to Prates’ influence.
He won two comps at the Bulldogs and was also part of South Sydney’s drought-breaking title triumph in 2014.
Last season, the Bulldogs conceded a dreadful 735 points – nearly 100 more than the next team.
In 2024, with three rounds to go, they lead the league in points against – and are on track to rattle cages in the finals as a result.
The Dogs have held opponents pointless in the second half an amazing seven times this season, including against the Dolphins last weekend.
Add to that a potent attack led by new skipper Stephen Crichton and the Dogs are heading into the final series as a real threat.
Watch the 2024 NRL premiership live and free on Nine and 9Now.
Defence is the cornerstone of their bid, though, thanks to Prates’ wrestling techniques and the coaching staff.
