Roosters Star Mark Nawaqanitawase’s Emotional Exit for Rugby Union

Mark Nawaqanitawase has opened up about his emotional departure from the Sydney Roosters as he prepares to return to rugby union, marking the end of a three-year stint in the NRL. The 25-year-old outside back, who joined the Roosters in 2023 after switching codes from rugby, will leave the club at the conclusion of the 2026 NRL season to join Japan’s Saitama Wild Knights. His move has reignited discussions about his future in representative football, though Nawaqanitawase has downplayed immediate ambitions in either State of Origin or the Wallabies.

An Emotional Farewell

Speaking to media in Bondi, Nawaqanitawase reflected on the personal significance of leaving the Roosters, describing the experience as “quite sad.” His time at the club has been transformative, both on and off the field, and he acknowledged the bonds he has formed with teammates and staff. “I’m going to miss everyone,” he said, his emotions evident as he addressed the reality of his impending exit. The decision to return to rugby union was not made lightly, but the opportunity to pursue a pathway back to the Wallabies ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup proved too compelling to ignore.

Nawaqanitawase’s departure comes at a pivotal moment for the Roosters, who have relied on his versatility and athleticism in recent seasons. His ability to play multiple positions in the backline has made him a valuable asset, though his transition from rugby union to rugby league was not without its challenges. Now, as he prepares to reverse the switch, he believes his time in the NRL has made him a better all-round player.

Growth as an Athlete

Nawaqanitawase credited his NRL experience with accelerating his physical and defensive development. “I’m a different player to what I was two or three years ago,” he told reporters. “In a non-arrogant way, bigger, better and faster. I’ve grown up a little bit. My physical aspect means I can do a lot more and just [be better] defensively as well. I’ve learned so much that I know it will make me a better player wherever I go.” His comments underscore the cross-code benefits of his time in rugby league, where he has honed skills that could serve him well in his return to union.

The Roosters have yet to announce a direct replacement for Nawaqanitawase, but his departure will leave a noticeable gap in their backline options. His combination of size, speed, and game intelligence has made him a standout performer in the NRL, and his absence will be felt as the club pushes for a finals berth in the latter stages of the 2026 season. For Nawaqanitawase, however, the focus remains on finishing his NRL career on a high before embarking on the next chapter in Japan.

Representative Ambitions Remain Open

Despite his impending move to rugby union, Nawaqanitawase has not ruled out a potential return to the NRL in the future. When asked about the possibility, he kept his options open, stating, “Like I’ve said before, it could be an option, but it’s so far away so I don’t know.” His non-committal response reflects the uncertainty of professional sports, where career trajectories can shift rapidly based on form, opportunity, and personal circumstances.

His representative future is equally fluid. Nawaqanitawase was part of discussions for a NSW Blues debut earlier this year and even joined a pre-season Origin camp, fueling speculation about his eligibility for the 2026 State of Origin series. However, he revealed he has not received a recent call from Blues coach Laurie Daley, and while he admitted playing for NSW would be a “dream,” his immediate focus remains on the Roosters. “It’s the last thing on my mind at the moment,” he said when asked about a potential Wallabies call-up, emphasizing his commitment to finishing the NRL season strongly.

What’s Next for Nawaqanitawase?

Nawaqanitawase’s move to the Saitama Wild Knights will reunite him with a club known for its strong development pathways and competitive domestic league. The Wild Knights have a history of nurturing talent for Japan’s national team, and Nawaqanitawase’s signing suggests the franchise sees him as a key piece of their future. His transition back to rugby union will not be without its challenges, particularly as he readjusts to the nuances of the 15-man code, but his physical evolution during his NRL stint could give him an edge.

For the Wallabies, Nawaqanitawase’s return to union presents an intriguing opportunity. While he has not been a regular in the national setup since switching to rugby league, his experience and improved skill set could make him a viable option for the 2027 Rugby World Cup. However, with the tournament still over a year away, his immediate priority will be securing a starting role in Japan and proving his form warrants selection.

As for the Roosters, Nawaqanitawase’s departure adds to a period of transition for the club. With several key players nearing the end of their contracts or approaching retirement, the 2026 season could mark the beginning of a rebuild. Nawaqanitawase’s legacy at the Roosters, though relatively short, will be remembered for his dynamic performances and the promise he showed in a new code. His journey—from rugby union to rugby league and back again—highlights the increasing fluidity between the two sports, as athletes seek new challenges and opportunities across the sporting landscape.

For now, Nawaqanitawase is focused on making the most of his remaining time in the NRL. “I’ve loved every minute of it,” he said of his time at the Roosters. “It’s been an incredible experience, and I’ll cherish the memories forever.” As he prepares to bid farewell to the club and its fans, his next chapter in Japan awaits—one that could ultimately lead him back to the international stage.