The Newcastle Knights have signed towering prop Lachlan Crouch on a three-year deal.
The 22-year-old came through the Knights pathway system before signing with the Sharks where he has become a regular fixture for their NSW Cup side.
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In his 11 appearances for the Newtown Jets in the State Cup, Crouch has made 293 tackles and missed just 10.
Newcastle Knights Head of Recruitment Peter O’Sullivan spoke to his reliability in the middle of the field in a statement released by the club on Thursday.
"Lachie is a skilful player with a great motor. He is technically very sound with a great footy IQ, and there is no doubt he is one of the best props in the NSW Cup competition," O’Sullivan said.
"We are delighted Lachie is coming home to the Knights for the next three years.
"Lachie had other options on the table, so we are really pleased he chose to come home to further his career. We know he will be a great addition to our squad."
The East Maitland Griffins junior will add depth to a forward pack that has been inconsistent in the first half of 2025.
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Daniel Saifiti, Leo Thompson and Adam Elliott have all had stints on the sideline to start the season which has forced Adam O'Brien into an impromptu youth movement.
Crouch was part of the Knights 2019 Harold Matthews Cup team that won the competition, and will be looking to lift a trophy once again in the Hunter.
He will see out the rest of the 2025 season with the Sharks and has been named to start at prop for the Jets in NSW Cup for their upcoming Round 17 fixture against the Rabbitohs.