Newcastle Knights hooker Phoenix Crossland has declared the club's marquee signing, Dylan Brown, is the perfect player to lead the team's charge back to NRL finals contention in 2026. The endorsement comes as the pair reunite at training following a successful campaign together for the New Zealand national side.
Kiwis Connection Forges Instant Chemistry
Crossland, who is poised to be Newcastle's first-choice hooker next season, developed a strong rapport with Brown during the recent Pacific Championships. Representing the Kiwis, the duo played in all three Tests, with the five-eighth Brown shining in victories over Samoa and Tonga.
Their partnership extended beyond the field, with the pair training together on Newcastle grounds during the off-season before the full Knights squad returned to headquarters. "He's pretty easy to play with," Crossland said. "But more importantly, he's a really good guy. I've got to know him pretty well... he's probably one of my best mates in the team at the moment."
Record Deal, Zero Pressure Says Teammate
Brown's move to Newcastle is one of the biggest in NRL history, a record 10-year contract worth $13 million. While such a deal brings immense expectation, Crossland is confident his new teammate has the temperament to handle it. "If anyone is going to be able to handle it, it's Dyl," stated Crossland, who has played 107 NRL games.
"When you get to know him... he won't feel pressure at all. He will take it in his stride. He is exactly what this team needs right now," Crossland added, emphasising Brown's relaxed demeanour and winning mentality.
Pacific Championships Form a Promising Sign
Brown's performance for New Zealand provided a tantalising preview for Knights fans. In the Pacific Championships, the 25-year-old scored three tries, set up seven more, and averaged 160 running metres per game. His outstanding form earned him a nomination for the prestigious Golden Boot award.
Crossland, who served the ball to Brown from dummy-half for the Kiwis, believes their on-field synergy will translate seamlessly to the NRL. "We sort of balance each other out," Crossland explained. "He just goes with the flow and plays eyes up. It was exciting for the club to see him playing well, and hopefully we can bring it back to Newcastle."
A New Era Under Holbrook
The arrival of Brown coincides with a significant refresh at the Knights, including the appointment of new head coach Justin Holbrook. Crossland described the atmosphere at the club as completely transformed. "I walked in and it felt like I was at a new club," he said. "Everyone's smiling and ready to go. There's just such good energy around the place."
With the squad currently on a three-day camp in Coffs Harbour, Crossland believes fans have genuine reason for optimism. "We're excited as a team and I feel like fans should be getting excited too," he said. "The boys are locked in." As the Knights look to rebound from a disappointing season, all eyes will be on their new million-dollar man, Dylan Brown, to provide the spark for a revival.
