NRL grand final offers more proof of Mark Nawaqanitawase’s freakish brilliance

By the Editorial Team · Tuesday, October 6, 2026

Mark Nawaqanitawase capped his two-year NRL career by scoring two tries in the Sydney Roosters’ narrow grand final win before signing a lucrative two-year rugby union contract in Japan. His dynamic and unpredictable style not only earned him representative honors but also set a new standard for versatile wingers, potentially influencing the future of both codes.

Mark Nawaqanitawase’s extraordinary rise in rugby league was punctuated by a premiership-winning performance in Sunday’s National Rugby League (NRL) grand final, marking the conclusion of his brief but impactful tenure in the code. The 26-year-old winger, who played just over two years in the NRL, secured a remarkable record of 47 tries in 47 matches and earned accolades including selection for State of Origin and the Australian Kangaroos. His last match for the Sydney Roosters showcased his unique blend of skill and unpredictability, underscoring his reputation as one of the league’s most exciting players.

Nawaqanitawase’s journey in rugby league began after switching from rugby union, a move that initially drew skepticism but was quickly dispelled by his performances. Roosters coach Trent Robinson described him as “a bit of an adventurer,” pointing to Nawaqanitawase’s recent decision to sign a two-year contract with Japan’s Saitama rugby union club, signaling his departure from the NRL. Robinson expressed optimism that the winger might return to league in the future, highlighting the mutual influence between club and player during his time at Moore Park.

Throughout the grand final, Nawaqanitawase demonstrated his aerial prowess and game-changing flair. He scored two tries and came close to adding several more, providing a consistent threat to the Newcastle Knights’ defense and helping the Roosters secure a narrow victory over the underdog side. His ability to disrupt expectations was evident from a high-flying attempt early in the match where a knee collision prevented a try, to a sequence of well-executed kicks and regathering that led to crucial points for his team.

Recognition for Nawaqanitawase extended beyond his own camp, with cheers from a crowd predominantly supporting the Knights underlining his impact. The Roosters’ wider squad faced boos, but the winger’s electrifying play earned goodwill, reflecting his standing as one of the game’s brightest talents.

His physical and tactical attributes, including audacious offloads, intelligent kicks, and strong ball carries, framed the farewell performance as a fitting end to a brief but exceptional NRL chapter. The reported $1.4 million annual contract with Saitama attracted attention as one of the most lucrative for a player transitioning from league to union, raising some surprise within the rugby league community.

While Nawaqanitawase’s future beyond the two-year Japanese stint remains uncertain, Robinson suggested that his influence might inspire a new generation of versatile wingers who embrace a more expansive and unpredictable approach to the position. The last two seasons will be remembered as a testament to Nawaqanitawase’s unconventional brilliance and the significant impact a singular talent can have in a short time.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.