“It was a straightforward decision”: Kiraz discusses Bulldogs’ unexpected captaincy alteration.
Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs coach Cameron Ciraldo has made a significant alteration to his team’s leadership structure in 2024, grabbing attention in the headlines.
The former Penrith assistant has replaced Matt Burton and Reed Mahoney, who were co-captains, with Panthers’ Premiership hero and current Bulldogs recruit Stephen Crichton.
Despite having only played 99 matches in his young career, Crichton boasts one of the NRL’s most impressive resumes and is widely recognized as one of the league’s top clutch players.
While the decision surprised many, individuals within the Bulldogs’ inner circle, including winger Jacob Kiraz, were swift to support the change.
“It was a straightforward decision. I’ve had a good rapport with ‘Critta’ since he joined the club,” Kiraz remarked to SEN 1170 The Run Home.
“Not many know how much of a prankster he is in the locker room, but that’s just his personality. Honestly, in his first week, he arrived early, and we had a team-building camp. The way he exhibited leadership qualities, it’s not easy to integrate into a new team, but he naturally showed he’s a leader. Obviously, his track record speaks for itself.”
At just 23, Crichton already boasts three wins from four Grand Final appearances, a World Cup Final appearance for Samoa, and two Dally M Centre of the Year awards, along with an 86 percent win rate at the club level.
“For all of us, it wasn’t surprising when he was named captain,” Kiraz emphasized. “He leads by example, both on the field and in training, and it’s been remarkable. I’m looking forward to playing under his leadership.”
Kiraz is scheduled to play alongside Crichton for the first time in an official NRL match next Saturday afternoon when the Bulldogs take on cross-town rivals the Parramatta Eels.
