‘Not a crack at rugby’: Wallabies’ next NRL convert rubbishes ‘code war’ claims

Roosters recruit Mark Nawaqanitawase has declared he isn’t “part of a code war” after signing to make a cross-code switch.

LYON, FRANCE - SEPTEMBER 23: Mark Nawaqanitawase of the Wallabies looks on during the Australia captain's run ahead of their Rugby World Cup France 2023 match against Wales at Parc Olympique on September 23, 2023 in Lyon, France. (Photo by Chris Hyde/Getty Images)

Roosters recruit Mark Nawaqanitawase has declared he isn’t “part of a code war” after signing to make a cross-code switch from rugby union.

The 23-year-old’s two-year contract with the Tricolours club was confirmed on Thursday and the outside back will join up with his new club in 2025.

Meanwhile, after the 2024 season young gun Joseph Suaalii will head the other direction after signing a mammoth $5 million contract with Rugby Australia.

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Speaking to the SMH, Nawaqanitawase rubbished claims Roosters powerbrokers signed him as a means to get back at the 15-man code.

“I’m not doing this code change in any way to have a crack at rugby,” he said.

“I’m not some part of a code war, I’m just doing what is right for me right now, and the opportunity at this young age to play for a club like the Roosters is something that I could not knock back.”

Nawaqanitawase’s contract expires at the end of 2026 and the Wallabies will take part in the 2027 World Cup on home soil.

The gun flyer made it clear he wouldn’t rule out a return to rugby union ahead of the tournament, but did say he expects to “fall in love” with rugby league.

Mark Nawaqanitawase of the Wallabies. Photo by Chris Hyde/Getty Images.

“I’d be silly not to look at things in 2027 when it comes to rugby, but right now that is a long way down the track and a lot can happen in that time,” he said.

“Of course, I wouldn’t rule anything out but, to be honest, the opportunity I’ve got right now is one that not many people my age could hope to get.”

Nawaqanitawase also heaped praise on both head coach Trent Robinson and club supremo Nikc Politis during their negotiations.

He also believes he will develop as a player under Robinson, using winger Daniel Tupou as a prime example.

“Well I look at what he did for the career of someone like Daniel Tupou,” Nawaqanitawase said.

“He was in reserve grade at Parramatta, and now look at where he is with the Roosters. Same with James Tedesco when he came from the Tigers.”

Originally published as ‘Not a crack at rugby’: Wallabies’ next NRL convert rubbishes ‘code war’ claims