Mark Nawaqanitawase, the Australian cross-code international winger, is gearing up for a return to rugby union later this year after signing with the Saitama Wild Knights in Japan. At just 25 years old, Nawaqanitawase has already made considerable strides in rugby league, having played for the Sydney Roosters in the NRL after completing a four-season tenure with the NSW Waratahs in Super Rugby.
With 11 caps for the Wallabies, he is setting his sights on a spot in the upcoming Rugby World Cup scheduled to take place in Australia next year. Nawaqanitawase expressed his enthusiasm for joining the prestigious Saitama Wild Knights, a team that has claimed six national championships, describing the opportunity as “a huge honour.”
This move not only marks a significant milestone in Nawaqanitawase’s career but also sees him reconnect with fellow Australian international Marika Koroibete at Saitama. Their partnership exemplifies the growing trend of rugby players transitioning between different leagues and countries, embracing broader opportunities and showcasing the dynamic nature of the sport. Nawaqanitawase’s ambition and this career shift reflect a vibrant rugby community that continues to expand and evolve on the global stage.