LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
In a surprising move, Wallabies star Mark Nawaqanitawase has made the highly-publicized switch to the NRL, signing a lucrative two-year deal with the Roosters.
This comes as another blow for Rugby Australia, who have been struggling to keep their top talent from defecting to rival codes.
Nawaqanitawase's performances in the recent Rugby World Cup were a shining light in an otherwise disappointing campaign for the Wallabies, but it seems the allure of the NRL has proved too strong.
Phil Waugh, the Rugby Australia CEO, expressed his disappointment at the departure of the talented winger, citing the depth of talent in the team's outside backs as a reason for optimism.
However, losing a player of Nawaqanitawase's caliber is undoubtedly a setback for the Wallabies.
The Roosters have secured a game-changer in their pursuit of NRL glory, with Nawaqanitawase's electric pace and try-scoring ability set to bolster their attacking arsenal.
It remains to be seen how the young star will adapt to the physicality and intensity of the NRL, but if he can transfer his Rugby Union skills onto the league field, he could become a force to be reckoned with.