Sydney Roosters sensation Mark Nawaqanitawase has become the latest name in rugby league’s ongoing battle with rugby union, with Rugby Australia eager to lure the flying winger back to the Wallabies ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
Nawaqanitawase himself has left the door open to leaving the NRL. “The next 18 months are locked in, but I’m really not sure after that,” he told the Sydney Morning Herald last month.
Nawaqanitawase, who made the high-profile code switch from rugby union last year, has been one of the Roosters’ most impressive players in 2025 and a clear fan favourite, developing into an attacking machine in rugby league.
In 13 appearances so far this season, he has racked up an impressive 13 tries and 14 line breaks, with his attacking prowess highlighted by an amazing try-of-the-year effort just a few rounds ago.
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The 23-year-old is currently under contract with the Roosters until the end of 2026, and there is no doubt the club would be eager to extend the ex-Wallaby, especially after so many high profile departures from Bondi in recent seasons.
If Rugby Australia throws a multi-million dollar offer at Nawaqanitawase though, similar to the $5 million deal that spearheaded the recruitment of Joseph Suaalii from the Roosters just this past season, it may be difficult to keep him in the NRL.
His athleticism and ability to break a game open have made him a hot property across both codes, and with his background in union, Rugby Australia will be banking on its appeal to get him back — especially considering the lure of a World Cup in Australia.
With the Roosters battling to secure a finals spot this year, Nawaqanitawase will remain a crucial part of the Tricolours premiership push in 2025, as well as a vital part of their rebuild into a future premiership force for future seasons as well.
However, come the off-season, a fresh tug-of-war could be poised to explode as both sports fight to claim one of Australia’s brightest cross-code talents.