Mark Nawaqanitawase’s anticipated return to rugby union ahead of next year’s Rugby World Cup on home soil presents both an opportunity and a challenge for Australia’s national team, the Wallabies. The 26-year-old winger, who has recently been excelling in the National Rugby League (NRL), is seen by many as a potential game-changer, but adapting his skills back to union will require adjustments.
Nawaqanitawase gained recognition for his outstanding performances in league, scoring numerous tries off high kicks and executing spectacular flick passes to set up teammates. However, while these abilities have shone in league, they are utilized differently in rugby union. His former coach and mentor, John Manenti, noted that Nawaqanitawase will likely need to expand his influence beyond the right wing, frequently moving across the field to create opportunities as a member of the back three.
Manenti, who has coached Nawaqanitawase at various stages of his career—including at Sydney club Eastwood and during the 2024 Paris Olympics with the Australian rugby sevens team—believes the player’s recent athletic development has strengthened his overall game. “He was already pretty decent before he went to the NRL, and he’s grown as a player. He’s stronger now than when he was in rugby, which is saying something because he’s always been a specimen,” Manenti said. He added that although Nawaqanitawase has only been away from union for two years, the athlete is more complete and likely has not yet reached his peak.
Despite optimism, Manenti cautioned that Nawaqanitawase’s transition will take time and refinement. “He’s probably going to take a little bit of time to adapt, but the good thing is it’s not like he’s learning a new game—it’s really just about refreshing himself,” he said. Manenti emphasized the importance of Rugby Australia providing Nawaqanitawase with the freedom to express his playing style while encouraging him to temper some instinctive decisions that have occasionally backfired.
The broader rugby community views Nawaqanitawase as a potential savior for a Wallabies side eager to recapture past glory on the global stage. However, fan enthusiasm remains cautious after previous disappointments. Success will depend on how effectively both the player and coaching staff can navigate the differences between union and league, and whether Nawaqanitawase can consistently translate his big-game talents to the 15-man code.
As Australia prepares to host the Rugby World Cup, the integration of a player of Nawaqanitawase’s calibre adds an intriguing dynamic to the team’s championship ambitions. His performance in the upcoming season will likely be closely watched as an indicator of the Wallabies’ prospects in the tournament.