Mark Nawaqanitawase, the former Wallabies flyer, is set to ditch the NRL and the Sydney Roosters at the end of the 2026 season, marking a sensational return to rugby union just in time for the 2027 Rugby World Cup. Nawaqanitawase, who has been on fire in the NRL, scoring 24 tries in 23 games this season, is eyeing a spot on the Wallabies team for the World Cup, scheduled to be held on home soil.
Despite his stellar performance in rugby league, Nawaqanitawase's heart seems to be with rugby union—a sport where he has already earned 11 test caps for Australia in 2022 and 2023, and even represented the country in the 2024 Olympics for rugby sevens. The Sydney Morning Herald revealed that Nawaqanitawase has refused a contract extension with the Roosters, opting instead to join an overseas rugby union club after his current contract expires.
Rugby Australia’s recent scrapping of the Giteau Law, which previously restricted overseas-based Australian players from representing the Wallabies unless they met certain criteria, will allow Nawaqanitawase to play abroad and still wear the green and gold at the World Cup. This rule change has undoubtedly played a role in his decision-making process.
"It’s a home World Cup so it can’t not be (a lure),"
Nawaqanitawase admitted earlier this month, highlighting the significant pull of playing in a World Cup held in Australia. Despite his love for the Roosters, where he has enjoyed considerable success, the allure of the World Cup seems too potent to resist.
Before he exits the NRL stage, there’s still a chance for Nawaqanitawase to make his mark in international rugby league. Peter V’landys, Chairman of the Australian Rugby League Commission, expressed his eagerness to see him don the national jersey for the upcoming Ashes Test series against England.
"He’s an excitement machine and would add thousands of fans to the Wembley game against England,"
said V’landys, showcasing his support for Nawaqanitawase's selection.
As Nawaqanitawase prepares for his rugby union comeback, his story remains a compelling narrative of a sportsman torn between two codes, each offering distinct paths to glory. His impending switch underscores not only his personal ambitions but also the broader, ever-evolving dynamics of professional rugby. Whether in the 13-a-side game or the 15-a-side version, Nawaqanitawase is a talent that keeps fans on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating his next move on the global stage.
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Mark Nawaqanitawase, the former Wallabies flyer, is set to ditch the NRL and the Sydney Roosters at the end of the 2026 season, marking a sensational return to rugby union just in time for the 2027 Rugby World Cup. Nawaqanitawase, who has been on fire in the NRL, scoring 24 tries in 23 games this season, is eyeing a spot on the Wallabies team for the World Cup, scheduled to be held on home soil.
Despite his stellar performance in rugby league, Nawaqanitawase's heart seems to be with rugby union—a sport where he has already earned 11 test caps for Australia in 2022 and 2023, and even represented the country in the 2024 Olympics for rugby sevens. The Sydney Morning Herald revealed that Nawaqanitawase has refused a contract extension with the Roosters, opting instead to join an overseas rugby union club after his current contract expires.
Rugby Australia’s recent scrapping of the Giteau Law, which previously restricted overseas-based Australian players from representing the Wallabies unless they met certain criteria, will allow Nawaqanitawase to play abroad and still wear the green and gold at the World Cup. This rule change has undoubtedly played a role in his decision-making process.
"It’s a home World Cup so it can’t not be (a lure),"
Nawaqanitawase admitted earlier this month, highlighting the significant pull of playing in a World Cup held in Australia. Despite his love for the Roosters, where he has enjoyed considerable success, the allure of the World Cup seems too potent to resist.
Before he exits the NRL stage, there’s still a chance for Nawaqanitawase to make his mark in international rugby league. Peter V’landys, Chairman of the Australian Rugby League Commission, expressed his eagerness to see him don the national jersey for the upcoming Ashes Test series against England.
"He’s an excitement machine and would add thousands of fans to the Wembley game against England,"
said V’landys, showcasing his support for Nawaqanitawase's selection.
As Nawaqanitawase prepares for his rugby union comeback, his story remains a compelling narrative of a sportsman torn between two codes, each offering distinct paths to glory. His impending switch underscores not only his personal ambitions but also the broader, ever-evolving dynamics of professional rugby. Whether in the 13-a-side game or the 15-a-side version, Nawaqanitawase is a talent that keeps fans on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating his next move on the global stage.