Racing
League
Rugby
Cricket
Golf
Motorsport
Combat Sports
Football
Netball
Basketball
Other Sports
Sport Nation
Bulldogs make decision on Crichton ahead of semi-final
Nicholas Quinlan • September 20th, 2025 7:55 pm
Bulldogs captain Stephen Crichton has officially been ruled out for their semi-final against the Penrith Panthers after their final training session on Friday.
The star centre would sustain the injury in the 20th minute of their 26-18 loss to the Melbourne Storm in the Qualifying Final.
The captain looked unlikely to feature for this week’s clash but was given every chance to do so, having been named in the extended 23-man squad.
Speaking in the press conference ahead of their clash against the Panthers, coach Cameron Ciraldo was impressed that he managed to get this far, but it proved too significant to overcome.
“He had a crack at training last night and didn’t quite get there,” he said.
“He did so well to give himself a chance. Obviously, he was in crutches and a moon boot last Saturday.
“But to give himself a chance at training last night was an incredible effort.”
As a result of his injury, Matt Burton will move into the centres and Toby Sexton will make his first start in the halves since Round 19.
The Bulldogs will host the Panthers at Accor Stadium on Sunday afternoon, with kick-off taking place at 3pm.
