Wallabies coach Les Kiss has made the extraordinary claim that Mark Nawaqanitawase needs to relearn the nuances of rugby as Australian selectors keep an eye on the talented player ahead of next year’s World Cup.
Rather than welcoming the dual international back ahead of his much-hyped return to the 15-man code, Kiss sasid yesterday that the Wallabies had plenty of good options before needing to roll out the red carpet for Nawaqanitawase.
Whether or not Kiss and Rugby Australia are unhappy about the winger’s agent saying this week that Nawaqanitawase was also considering representing Italy or Fiji at the 2027 global showpiece, Kiss’s nonchalance will be music to the ears of NRL boss Peter V’landys.
The former NSW Waratahs and Wallabies star proved himself to be a generational talent during his two-year stint in rugby league, helping Australia win an Ashes series, NSW reclaim the State of Origin trophy and the Sydney Roosters secure their first premiership since 2019.
The 26-year-old finished his first NRL stint with a phenomenal strike rate of 49 tries in 49 games, including the 2025 Try of the Season, as well as two tries in the Roosters’ 19-18 grand final triumph over Newcastle.
Yet Kiss, perhaps trying to keep the rest of the Wallabies wingers happy, says the Japan-bound Nawaqanitawase has work to do before earning a Test recall in 2027.
Kiss says Nawaqanitawase has been away from rugby union for some time and needs to get back into the game and develop a better understanding of its demands. He says that, at this stage, they support Nawaqanitawase in what he is doing.
He says the Wallabies have plenty of good options and will continue to focus on those players.
Under World Rugby's eligibility regulations, Nawaqanitawase could become eligible to represent Italy through his grandmother or Fiji through his father from August next year, subject to meeting the relevant requirements.
However, if he chooses to switch allegiances, he would not be allowed to represent Australia again.
The free agent will reportedly earn AUD$3 million over two years playing for Saitama Wild Knights in Japan’s League One under former Wallabies coach Robbie Deans.
If he does opt to play for the Wallabies at the World Cup, Nawaqanitawase would only receive match payments for the tournament because he is not contracted to Rugby Australia or an Australian Super Rugby franchise.
By raising the possibility of representing Italy or Fiji, his agent may be attempting to secure a more lucrative deal for Nawaqanitawase.
Whatever the motive, Kiss appears unwilling to move heaven and earth to secure his services.
The Wallabies host the All Blacks at 4.45pm tomorrow at Accor Stadium in Sydney.
Source: 7news.com.au
