Mark Nawaqanitawase, a talented cross-code athlete with the Sydney Roosters, has made a decision regarding his future following the current NRL season.
Reports from earlier this week indicated that Nawaqanitawase was poised to receive an offer that would allow him to extend his contract to participate in the 2026 Rugby League World Cup with Australia.
His existing contract with the Roosters wraps up on October 31, just before the new 2027 cycle begins on November 1.
The World Cup is scheduled from mid-October to mid-November, which would interfere with any chances of touring with the Wallabies in England.
Ultimately, the winger, who played a crucial role in the NSW Blues' series win, has opted against representing either the Kangaroos or Wallabies, choosing instead to join the Saitama Wild Knights in Japan, as reported by The Daily Telegraph.
The rugby team, with whom he has signed a lucrative $3 million deal, anticipates his arrival on November 1 for preparations ahead of trial matches that are set for mid-November.
Although international rugby union allows players to participate in Test Matches during a release window, Nawaqanitawase intends to acclimate to Japan and establish himself at his new club.
Kevin Walters has expressed his desire for the Roosters star to return to the Kangaroos for the World Cup.
The former Broncos coach, now leading the Kangaroos, had previously included Nawaqanitawase in the Ashes series against England, where they won all three matches.