Rugby union convert Mark Nawaqanitawase wasted no time in putting his hand up as a potential finals difference-maker for the Roosters, impressing on his NSW Cup debut in the Tricolours’ thrilling 23-22 win over the Bulldogs.
Scoring a critical try midway through the first half after scything through four defenders with a perfect line, the 23-year old sparked headlines earlier this year after announcing a shock move to rugby league, having been touted as a long-term star for the Wallabies after being one of the few shining lights in a 2023 from hell.
Having also represented Australia in rugby sevens at the Olympics, impressing from limited game time as the team lost both its semi-final and bronze medal matches to leave Paris empty-handed, a crowd of just 200 at Wentworth Park didn’t dampen Nawaqanitawase’s spirits.
“I found it fun, which was good,” Nawaqanitawase told The Daily Telegraph post-match.
“I’m just trying to find my feet and learn as much as I can… all the boys put me in the right positions and I just had to finish off where they put me.
“It doesn’t matter where I play, I’m just grateful for the opportunity.
“I was lucky enough to have my family here as well, which was cool.”
With first grade coach Trent Robinson, as well as Roosters chairman Nick Politis and new teammates Angus Crichton and Sam Walker watching on in the stands, the winger’s impressive performance presents a selection dilemma in the lead-in to finals, with the Roosters all but locked into the top four.
However, Robinson has been adamant Nawaqanitawase won’t be rushed into the first grade team, with a debut more likely to come in 2025 as the rugby convert eases into his new code and first-choice Roosters Joey Manu and Joseph Suaalii head the other way to union.
Speaking on the Big Sports Breakfast, rugby league journalist Phil Rothfield, however, believes his impressive start in the tricolours makes him a perfect back-up should injury strike for the remainder of the season.
“This guy is going to make it, there’s no question whatsoever,” Rothfield said.
“He was very willing but very brilliant as well. He’s got a lot of speed, a lot of skill and he’s one of those high workrate wingers who go looking for the ball.
“Will he play this year? The Roosters have said that he won’t, but I think it will depend on how he goes in NSW Cup over the next couple of weeks and I think it’ll also depend on injuries with the wingers and centres at the Roosters.
“It’s going to be exciting. Won’t it be a great addition to the finals if the Roosters need to bring him into the side?”
The Roosters won 23-22 in a bizarre match that featured 45 points in the first half and none in the second, with a field goal from Hugo Savala in the 40th minute proving enough to secure victory.
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