Mark Nawaqanitawase, a standout player for the Sydney Roosters, is poised to embark on a lucrative return to rugby union after reportedly signing a notable contract with a Japanese Division One club, valued at over $1 million per season. The 25-year-old forward has committed to a two-year deal exceeding $2 million, with the Roosters indicating a willingness to welcome him back upon the completion of his contract.
Nawaqanitawase is expected to finish the 2026 NRL season with the Roosters before transitioning back to rugby union, as he aims to achieve both a State of Origin debut and an NRL premiership within the next year. This decision, however, will likely preclude him from selection for Australia’s Kangaroos squad for the upcoming Rugby League World Cup set for October and November, as his attention turns towards his new adventure in the 15-a-side game.
He has been a remarkable player in the NRL, achieving an impressive record of 25 tries in just 24 matches over the last two seasons, including finishing as the league’s leading try-scorer in 2025. Before his venture into rugby league, Nawaqanitawase showcased his talents with the Wallabies, earning six Test caps from 2022 to 2024, and he played a key role in Australia’s 3–0 series triumph against England last year.
Despite moving overseas, Nawaqanitawase will still be eligible for Wallabies selection, thanks to changes in Rugby Australia’s policies. The Giteau Law, which previously mandated that overseas players needed at least 60 Test caps to be considered for national selection, has been relaxed, allowing more flexibility in choosing players based abroad.
This shift reflects Rugby Australia’s commitment to adapting to the evolving landscape of international rugby and retaining top talent, making Nawaqanitawase’s future in rugby union a bright prospect as he embarks on this new chapter in his career.
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