The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs will be proudly represented in the 2025 State of Origin series, with two of their top players selected to don the sky-blue jersey for New South Wales. The official team announcement has confirmed that Bulldogs stars Matt Burton and Stephen Crichton will take the field in Game I of the highly anticipated series.
Both players have been in outstanding form throughout the NRL season, helping drive the Bulldogs’ resurgence and proving vital to the team’s success on both ends of the field. Burton, known for his powerful left boot and versatility in the halves, has been selected at five-eighth, edging out several strong contenders for the role. His creativity and kicking game are expected to be key weapons for the Blues.
Meanwhile, Crichton, who joined the Bulldogs this season from the Penrith Panthers, will line up in the centres. Renowned for his athleticism, defensive reads, and try-scoring ability, Crichton has quickly established himself as a leader within the Bulldogs’ squad and now earns another opportunity at Origin level.
NSW Blues coach Michael Maguire praised the Bulldogs duo during the squad announcement, highlighting their work ethic and big-game experience. “Both Matt and Stephen have been outstanding this year. They’ve earned this through consistent performances and a real hunger to compete,” Maguire said.
The Bulldogs club has also expressed pride in their representatives, sharing a message of congratulations and support. “It’s a great honour for our club to see Matt and Stephen selected. Their hard work and dedication have been outstanding, and they’ll do the Blue jersey proud,” said Bulldogs head coach Cameron Ciraldo.
The State of Origin opener is scheduled for Wednesday, June 5, at Accor Stadium in Sydney, where the Bulldogs stars will look to help NSW reclaim the shield from Queensland after last year’s narrow series defeat.
Leave a Reply