Sydney Roosters sensation Mark Nawaqanitawase is once again at the crossroads of his sporting career, with the explosive winger strongly tipped to walk away from the NRL at the end of next season to pursue his long-term dream of representing Australia in the 2027 Rugby World Cup. The 25-year-old’s next move has sparked widespread debate, not only about his commitment to the Roosters but also about what it means for the Kangaroos as they prepare for the highly anticipated Ashes series against England.

Despite the uncertainty around his future, Australian Rugby League Commission chairman Peter V’landys made it clear that he hopes Nawaqanitawase will still don the green and gold before making a potential return to the 15-man code.

“It’s up to the Australian selectors, however I have no problem and hope they pick him,” V’landys told AAP when asked about Nawaqanitawase’s selection chances. “He’s an excitement machine and would add thousands of fans to the Wembley game against England.”

Meeting with Roosters Sparks Speculation

Last week, representatives of Nawaqanitawase met with Roosters officials to discuss his future, fuelling speculation that his stint in rugby league could be shorter than many expected. Having arrived from rugby only recently, the winger has enjoyed a breakout year in the NRL, finishing as the league’s top try-scorer with 25 tries. His blistering pace and flair have quickly made him a fan favourite in Sydney’s east.

However, reports from the Sydney Morning Herald this week suggest that the speedster has informed the Roosters of his intention to return to rugby once his current deal expires. While sources close to him insist that no official contract has been signed, the momentum appears to be building toward a rugby reunion.

The timing is significant, with the 2027 Rugby World Cup set to be held in Australia. For Nawaqanitawase, the chance to play in front of a home crowd on rugby’s biggest stage is proving an irresistible lure.

A Difficult Decision

Nawaqanitawase himself has openly acknowledged how torn he feels between the two codes. Speaking earlier this month, he admitted that the call would not be easy.

“It’s a home World Cup so it can’t not be (a lure),” Nawaqanitawase said before the NRL finals. “It’s actually going to be a hard decision. I love this club so much and I have loved my time here. I know the months after the season are going to be tough. It’s obviously a grateful position to be in, in terms of making a decision, but it’s going to be a tough one.”

The winger’s honesty reflects the genuine emotional pull he feels towards the Roosters, a club that has helped him take his game to another level. Yet, the prestige of wearing Wallabies gold on home soil is the kind of opportunity that rarely comes around in an athlete’s career.

Rugby Door Remains Wide Open

Rugby Australia has made no secret of its willingness to welcome Nawaqanitawase back into the fold. Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt has been impressed with the winger’s continued growth since switching to league.

“I saw Mark in passing a couple of weeks ago and he certainly looked in good shape,” Schmidt said. “I’ve seen him score a couple of very impressive tries. He loves getting in at the corner and quite acrobatically. There’s a few guys floating around that have been in the rugby union production line who I don’t think Rugby Australia has closed the door on either. A lot of that rests in Mark’s court as to what he does next.”

Having already represented the Wallabies 11 times between 2022 and 2023 and featured in rugby sevens at the 2024 Paris Olympics, Nawaqanitawase is far from a stranger to the international rugby stage. His prior experience makes him a prime candidate to reintegrate seamlessly into the squad ahead of the World Cup.

Roosters Face Big Decisions

If Nawaqanitawase does move on, the Roosters will not only lose one of their most electrifying players but also face a major rebuilding challenge. His departure would free up significant salary cap space in 2027, though, which could allow the club to chase other marquee signings.

The Roosters have already endured a spate of departures to rugby in recent years, including stars Joey Manu and Joseph Aukuso-Suaalii. The trend has highlighted the ongoing tug-of-war between the two codes for elite athletic talent.

Compounding the challenge, several other key names — including captain James Tedesco and forward Angus Crichton — are off contract at the end of next season. Crichton has openly admitted that he too has an interest in exploring a switch back to rugby, further adding to the uncertainty facing Trent Robinson’s squad.

Looking ahead, big-name outside backs such as Herbie Farnworth and Selwyn Cobbo are set to hit the open market in 2027, meaning the Roosters could be major players when the next recruitment cycle begins in November.

Code-Hopping Future?

For Nawaqanitawase, this latest twist in his career may not be the final chapter. Many believe he could establish himself as a modern-day “code-hopper,” alternating between rugby league and union depending on opportunities. Given his youth, there remains every chance that he could return to the NRL after fulfilling his World Cup ambitions.

For now, however, the tug-of-war continues, with Roosters fans left wondering if they are watching the last acts of his league journey, while rugby supporters eagerly await his possible homecoming.

One thing is certain: wherever Mark Nawaqanitawase plays, his athleticism, charisma, and flair for the spectacular will ensure he remains one of the most talked-about figures in Australian sport.