Mark Nawaqanitawase could become the first Australian rugby-to-league dual international since Scott Gourley in 1991. The talented winger will take the field for the Kangaroos against England at Wembley Stadium, marking a significant milestone in his career and Australian sports history.
Nawaqanitawase has enjoyed a breakout season with the Sydney Roosters. He far surpassed any of his competitors, finishing as the NRL’s overall top tryscorer with a staggering 24 tries in just 23 matches. His contributions have been vital to his clubs’ success. His supreme individual brilliance is going to make the English side very afraid.
Having previously featured for the Wallabies, Nawaqanitawase opts to switch allegiances after starring for Tonga on the world stage. His selection to play for the Kangaroos is a testament to his prodigious pedigree and versatility in both codes of rugby. He will join fellow debutant Reece Walsh and two other newcomers in the opening Test of rugby league’s Ashes series.
Nawaqanitawase’s Test debut will round out what has been an incredible year for the 21-year-old. His technical ability toward goal, in conjunction with Walsh’s technical gifts, should make for an intimidating partnership on the field. They will be supported by teammates Gehamat Shibasaki, Kotoni Staggs, and others in the back five, enhancing Australia’s offensive capabilities.
As the Kangaroos readied themselves for this momentous clash, Australia coach Kevin Walters said there could be no greater honour for the debutants.
“It’s going to be a huge thrill for all four of them to wear the green and gold for the first time in a Test match at such an iconic stadium.” – Kevin Walters
On the overall experience of being with the whole team together, he added to the idea of togetherness and teamwork.
“I’m excited for them as well as all of our players. Every member of our squad, whether they take the field or not, is about to experience something incredibly special at Wembley. As I’ve said from day one of our preparations here in England, we’re on this Ashes journey together because it’s going to take a collective effort from everyone involved.” – Kevin Walters
As Nawaqanitawase gets ready to run out for the first time at Wembley, excitement is shared all around him from the fans to his teammates. His presence on the field promises to be a game-changer as Australia seeks to assert itself in the Ashes series against a determined England side.
