The 'biggest stage' Nawaqanitawase has played on, and it's not the Olympics

Mark Nawaqanitawase’s code-hopping future has become one of Australian sport’s most intriguing subplots, with the Sydney Roosters preparing to step up talks over a long-term deal just as Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt made it clear the door remains open for a dramatic rugby union return.

The 25-year-old flyer has been a revelation in his first full NRL season, crossing for 23 tries in 22 games and earning rave reviews for his athleticism and finishing prowess.

Already flagged as a contender for the Kangaroos’ Ashes tour to England, he will be free to negotiate with rival clubs – and other codes – from November 1, when he enters the final year of his Roosters contract.

Nawaqanitawase was grilled on the Freddy & the Eighth NRL show in Australian television about his future on the sport, setting the stage for a tug-of-war between league and union that could define the next stage of his career.

The former Waratahs ace’s comments about the 2023 Rugby World Cup may also prove telling when contracts are on the table.

On his season so far:
“It’s been a crazy year so far. But obviously, you know, the 27 rounds are done and I guess this is the part that I’ve wanted to get to — the finals series. So, uh, really looking forward to what can happen.”

On starting out in league and switching to rugby union:
“You played league as a junior, then you went to rugby union. When you were playing rugby, did you ever think about and wish you were playing NRL?”
“Yeah, definitely. You know, it’s what I grew up with — the first sport I started. I always had a watchful eye on the NRL and when the opportunity came up, I thought it was the right time.”

On his boyhood team:
“What did you go for when you were playing rugby?”
“Might hurt my Roosters fans here, but I actually went for the Tigers at the start… then I switched over to the Roosters. Bit of a bandwagon.”

On the differences between union and league:
“On the field, I’d have to say just the physicality. The ball’s in play much longer than in union, so getting used to all the running, and with the contact as well, that’s been the biggest challenge at the start.”

On life off the field:
“Yeah, definitely different. Especially around the east, we have a good group of supporters who love the team. I’m just grateful to have that support.”

On his future and Wallabies rumours:
“Rugby union are probably a bit jealous that we’ve got you in league. Can we say you’re locked away?”
“Look, I’ve got another year here. I’m still locked in for another year. I’m just looking forward to this finals series and enjoying the moment where I am now, because these things don’t last forever. I’m enjoying my time here a lot.”

On playing for Australia in league:
“Have you dreamt about playing for Australia, being a dual international?”
“Yeah, I’ve been lucky to play for Australia already. I’m interested. I’m Australian and Fijian as well, so when that time comes, definitely keen.”

On the biggest stage he’s played on:
“I’d probably say the Olympics was pretty big, but I’d actually have to say the World Cup in 2023. It was a wonderful event and it shows how big the sport [rugby union] is in Europe. Obviously we didn’t do well as a team, but just the experience of being at a World Cup, playing with the boys and seeing all the different cultures and teams, was amazing.”

On his viral ‘hop kick’ try:
“Seems like every week you’re doing some freakish things — the hop kick went viral worldwide. Can you talk us through that?”
“Yeah, that was crazy. I’ve never seen anything like it before myself. Just one of those things that happened in the moment.”