Stephen Crichton has revealed he required permission from his heavily pregnant wife, Leone, to join the New South Wales camp for the State of Origin decider. With his first child expected in just two weeks, the Canterbury captain's July 2026 could become the best month of his life if the Blues secure the shield at Suncorp Stadium on Wednesday night.
Crichton's Recall After Injury
After missing Origin II due to a persistent shoulder injury, Crichton earned a recall to play right centre in the series finale. The 25-year-old admitted he first needed to discuss the decision with his wife. 'Yeah, I had to. But she's doing really well, she's been carrying really well as well. She's a strong lady,' Crichton said. 'Life's going to change. I've always been footy 24/7, footy, footy, footy. That's going to change now with baby coming. I'm very excited.'
Confidence from Past Success
Crichton was part of the Blues team that won the last Origin decider at Suncorp in 2024, and also the side that claimed game one there in 2025. 'As a young kid, you want to play in those deciders up in Queensland, especially,' he said. 'I know any New South Welshman would want to put on the jersey and go there. There's only 18 of us or 19 of us that get to do this opportunity.'
Key Combination with Nawaqanitawase
Crichton's partnership with winger Mark Nawaqanitawase is expected to be crucial for NSW in both attack and defence. The towering duo are primary targets for the Blues' kicking game, while Queensland's left side remains their most potent attacking channel. The pair have been rooming together during camp for game three and have developed a strong rapport. 'He's a character,' Nawaqanitawase said. 'I've obviously watched Stephen from afar, so it's been good to get a chance to play with him. Just trying to connect this week, we've been pretty close. (We are) trying to get our combos working and then hopefully take it into the game.'
