Rugby cross-code talent Mark Nawaqanitawase is preparing for an exciting new phase in his career as he announces his signing with the Saitama Wild Knights in Japan later this year. After spending four years with the Sydney Roosters in the NRL, Nawaqanitawase is thrilled to join a club celebrated for its strong performance and rich heritage.
In a recent statement, he recognized the Wild Knights as a powerhouse in rugby union, emphasizing their impressive track record. Nawaqanitawase shared his enthusiasm, stating, “They are a very strong team that has experienced a lot of success and it is a club which carries a rich history. I am looking forward to becoming part of the Wild Knights and I am looking forward to what we can build together in the future.”
Though the specifics of his contract remain undisclosed, Australian media outlets report that he has inked a lucrative two-year deal with the Wild Knights while committing to the Roosters throughout the entirety of the 2026 NRL season. His passion for securing a premiership with the Roosters is evident, as he expressed, “I want to walk out of here with a premiership with the lads,” in a conversation with CODE Sports.
Joining the Wild Knights, Nawaqanitawase is set to play alongside notable players, including Marika Koroibete, a former Australian Wallabies star and Fiji-born winger. The Saitama Wild Knights, founded in 1960 by students and employees of the past Japanese electronics manufacturer Sanyo, is located in Kumagaya, Saitama Prefecture, and is recognized among Japan’s elite rugby union teams.
This move for Nawaqanitawase signifies not just a transition but also a blending of his rugby league roots with new opportunities in the rugby union landscape. The sporting community eagerly anticipates this new chapter in his journey, hopeful for the achievements and experiences that await him at the Wild Knights.