NRL: Mark Nawaqanitawase hints at early Sydney Roosters arrival following Paris Olympics sevens campaign

Mark Nawaqanitawase has cryptically hinted he might be at the Sydney Roosters sooner than expected following the conclusion to Australia’s sevens campaign at the Paris Olympics.

PARIS, FRANCE - JULY 24: Mark Nawaqanitawase #5 of Team Australia looks on during the Men's Rugby Sevens Pool B Group match between Australia and Kenya on Day -2 of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 at Stade de France on July 24, 2024 in Paris, France. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)

Sevens star Mark Nawaqanitawase has cryptically hinted that he could be at the Sydney Roosters sooner than anyone expected as he prepares to fly home from Paris and supercharge the NRL club’s premiership quest.

Nawaqanitawase’s stint as a rugby union player ended on Sunday morning (AEDT) when the Australian seven’s side was narrowly beaten in the bronze medal playoff against South Africa at Stade de France, freeing him to make a switch of codes.

The 23-year-old was expected to link with the Roosters once the seven’s campaign came to an end but rather than take a short break, it appears he will fly straight home to join the club and begin acclimatising himself with rugby league.

“Sooner than everyone thinks,” Nawaqanitawase replied when asked when he would start training with the Roosters.

“You’ll have to wait and see. I will be (pumped). I am still disappointed at the moment. I would have liked to have gone home with something but I am looking forward to it.

“I will be linking up with them pretty soon – it will be a quick turnaround.”

Mark Nawaqanitawase representing Australia at the Paris Olympics. Picture: Cameron Spencer/Getty Images

Nawaqanitawase played a limited role off the interchange bench at the Paris Games but he still managed to produce a couple of eye-catching moments that hinted he could have a genuine impact in the NRL.

Provided he can settle in quickly, his size and power he could be a handy addition as the club heads into the finals with genuine hopes of winning a title.

The Roosters sit in third spot after their win over the Sea Eagles at the weekend and did so with veteran Michael Jennings in the centres but he is facing a two-to-three match ban for a high tackle while the club sweats on getting Joseph Manu back from a broken hand for the clash in Perth against the Dolphins on Friday.

Mark Nawaqanitawase has hinted at an early arrival to the Roosters. Picture: Adam Head

The Roosters’ outside backs stocks have been so depleted recently that back rower Sitili Tupouniua had been moonlighting as a centre.

Nawaqanitawase watched the win over Manly and confirmed he had recently spoken to coach Trent Robinson about his plans after the Olympics.

“It’s very disappointing,” Nawaqanitawase said of the bronze medal game loss.

“Still got that feeling right now – just a bit dull. Could be better. The atmosphere was second to none but still feeling the loss.

“I know how hard the boys work – we did some good work and I think we did well over the past few days. But to not put the icing on the cake or come away with anything is quite disappointing.

“Still disappointed not to come away with anything. Obviously, I will have time to reflect over the next couple of days before I move on to other things.”