Mark Nawaqanitawase, the Sydney Roosters winger known for his electrifying play, has signaled that he intends to continue delivering standout performances as he prepares for what may be his final National Rugby League (NRL) appearance. The Roosters will face the Dolphins in the grand final qualifier on Friday night, with Nawaqanitawase promising he still has impressive moments to offer despite an already remarkable, albeit brief, rugby league career.
In three years and 45 games with the Roosters, Nawaqanitawase has scored 43 tries and earned a State of Origin shield. Transitioning from rugby union, where Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii moved in the opposite direction, he has quickly become one of the NRL’s most marketable players. His highlight-reel try against the Bulldogs in 2025—where he maintained control of the ball while falling outside the sideline before circling back to score—garnered over 12 million views across official NRL platforms.
In recent finals matches, Nawaqanitawase has produced memorable moments, including a 50-metre intercept try against Penrith and a spectacular flick pass that led to a try by Connor Watson at Allianz Stadium. With contract decisions pending, Nawaqanitawase remains optimistic about his contributions despite the likelihood that the upcoming game may mark the end of his tenure in the league. “I’ve got stuff in the tank,” he said ahead of the qualifier.
Meanwhile, attention in the NRL offseason is also turning to the future of South Sydney Rabbitohs centre Latrell Mitchell. With his contract due to expire at the end of 2027, negotiations have been paused, allowing Mitchell to engage with rival clubs from November 1. The newly established Perth Bears are reportedly preparing a lucrative offer estimated at $1.7 million per year to secure the two-time premiership winner for their 2028 campaign and beyond.
Rabbitohs chief executive Blake Solly confirmed the club intends to wait until Mitchell’s representative commitments and preseason concludes before resuming contract discussions. Club officials have emphasized caution given the financial stakes, while also stressing support for Mitchell’s ongoing recovery from a World Cup back injury.
Mal Meninga, former Australian coach who worked with Mitchell during representative duties, praised the player’s character and influence, describing him as a respected leader on and off the field. Despite Mitchell’s injury-limited availability—34 games across three seasons—Meninga defended his current form and market value, highlighting his appeal not only as a player but as a prominent Indigenous role model.
As for the grand final qualifier, the matchup between the Dolphins and the Roosters is shaping up to be an intense clash, drawing comparisons to historic teams known for dynamic backline play. Analysts point to the Dolphins’ strong outside backs and fast ball movement as key threats, recalling the impact of the late-1980s Canberra Raiders. The Dolphins’ backline boasts talented young creators such as Max Plath, Kurt Donoghoe, and Isaiya Katoa, though Katoa's effectiveness may be limited by a kicking-foot injury.
The Roosters will rely on a blend of youthful forwards—Naufahu Whyte, Siaua Wong, and Salesi Foketi—and the unpredictability of playmaker Sam Walker, whose ability to generate opportunities outside structured play makes him a focal point of the Dolphins’ defense.
Several individual matchups are expected to be pivotal, including the contest between Dolphins star Kalyn Ponga and defensive opponents Blaize Talagi and Jack Cole, as well as a forward battle between veteran Liam Martin and emerging talent Francis Manuleleua. Wingers Brian Too and Greg Marzhew will also be crucial in gaining yardage against tight defensive lines.
Commentators anticipate a close encounter with fans eagerly awaiting whether the Roosters’ experience and flair or the Dolphins’ youthful dynamism will prevail in this decisive qualifier.