LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Incoming Wallabies coach Les Kiss has stated that dual international Mark Nawaqanitawase will need to earn his place back in the national team when he returns to rugby union in 2027.
Kiss is confident that the 25-year-old will bring an additional edge to Australian rugby after completing his last season in the NRL with the Sydney Roosters in 2026.
Nawaqanitawase is set to make his Kangaroos debut against England at Wembley on Sunday (AEDT) and is expected to secure a contract with a European rugby team in 2027 as he readies for a World Cup year.
In the 2025 season, the talented back led the NRL try-scoring charts, achieving 24 tries in 23 matches.
Although Kiss, who is also the Queensland Reds coach, mentioned that the franchise could pursue the Roosters star, he will be overseeing the Wallabies when 2027 arrives.
"I think there's a little bit of water to go under the bridge before we get to those discussions. One thing's certain, he's earned his way to that Kangaroo jersey," Kiss remarked.
He added, "We know he loves the game of rugby, so all options are open."
Kiss indicated that playing rugby in Europe would not diminish Nawaqanitawase's chances of adding to his 11 Test appearances.