To kick off 2017, we take a look at some of the up-and-coming male and female stars who will hope to represent NSW this year and in the future. Today we look at one of four young Knights rapidly rising through the NSW ranks: Phoenix Crossland.
This Newcastle Knights junior is yet another talented playmaker who will look to feature in more NSW representative sides in years to come.
Crossland was outstanding throughout the Harold Matthews season, as the Knights kept pace with eventual premiers the Eels. Playing at halfback, he put forward a sensational individual effort to score in the grand final, as Newcastle fell just short of a remarkable late comeback. He also combined well with five-eighth Jock Madden and lock and captain Brock Gardner; the trio were all selected for the NSW Under-16s in May.
With a solid kicking game, Crossland took on the majority of in-play kicking duties as NSW defeated Queensland 12-10. A student of Hunter Sports High School, he continues to improve significantly and will look to make his mark on the SG Ball competition this year.
