Many Penrith Panthers were worried if he would stay but they can rest easy as Stephen Crichton has signed on with the Penrith Panthers until 2023.
Crichton’s new deal is a chance for him to press his Origin claims and continue his good form of 2020.
Crichton is pleased to have the chance to stay at the Panthers, a place that is like home for him.
“It’s really exciting to know I’m going to be at Panthers for the next three years,” Crichton said.
“This is my home. I’ve grown up in this club and built strong relationships with everyone here. I’ve never wanted to play anywhere else.
“To get the deal done before the season starts is massive and now I can focus on playing my best footy.”
Panthers coach Ivan Cleary is pleased to retain the promising centre, who is a local junior and has come through the club ranks.
“I’m very happy that ‘Critta’ will continue to grow and develop in the Panthers system alongside his good mates,” Cleary said.
“I look forward to working with him over the next three years and I know he’ll contribute strongly to our club, on and off the field, in that time.”