Rugby Australia Pursues Mark Nawaqanitawase for 2027 World Cup Bid

In a significant move to bolster its squad ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup, Rugby Australia is reportedly making a concerted effort to bring back Mark Nawaqanitawase, a former Wallabies player who has made a name for himself in the National Rugby League (NRL) with the Sydney Roosters. Nawaqanitawase, who transitioned to the NRL in 2024, has emerged as a potent attacking threat, having recently scored twice in a match against the Wests Tigers, showcasing his impressive strength and agility on the field.

According to veteran sports journalist Phil Rothfield from The Daily Telegraph, Rugby Australia is "desperately" keen to have Nawaqanitawase return to rugby union, particularly with the upcoming World Cup taking place on home soil. Rothfield highlighted the urgency of the situation, noting, "I’ve spoken to his manager, and the Roosters want to negotiate, but Nawaqanitawase and his agent prefer to wait until the season concludes."

Currently, Nawaqanitawase's contract with the Roosters runs until the end of 2026, which means he will be free to engage with other clubs starting in November 2026. Rothfield mentioned that Rugby Australia is prepared to offer a lucrative deal to entice him back, especially after witnessing the successful return of Joseph Suaalii, another former Roosters player who is now under contract with Rugby Australia for over $5 million after his impressive debut with the Wallabies.

Nawaqanitawase's decision to switch back to rugby union would be influenced by the allure of participating in a World Cup on home turf, a sentiment he expressed in an interview with The Sydney Morning Herald. He stated, "The next 18 months are locked in, but I’m really not sure after that. Absolutely though, that World Cup is there, and it is on home soil. That’s why I signed for two years in the first place."

The competition for Nawaqanitawase’s signature is heating up, with the Roosters eager to retain their star asset while Rugby Australia seeks to enhance its national team ahead of the prestigious tournament. The potential bidding war could redefine the landscape of Australian rugby as both codes vie for the talents of one of their most promising athletes.

Overall, Nawaqanitawase's situation is emblematic of the broader challenges faced by Rugby Australia in retaining top talent, especially when lucrative offers from the NRL are on the table. As the 2027 Rugby World Cup approaches, it remains to be seen how Nawaqanitawase's career trajectory will unfold, and whether he will once again don the Wallabies jersey or continue to make waves in the NRL.