‘I want him back’: V’landys’ pitch to rugby-bound Nawaqanitawase

October 18, 2026 — 5:00am

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The love for Roosters grand final hero Mark Nawaqanitawase on his way out of the NRL is both surprising and huge – and in contrast to the tense circumstances around his possible Wallabies return.

Onlookers contacted me to report NRL boss Peter V’landys had bumped into Nawaqanitawase at the Kangaroos-Kiwis World Cup clash at Allianz Stadium on Thursday night and had been very vocal about his desire to bring the winger back to the code after his two-season stint at Japanese rugby club Panasonic Saitama Wild Knights.

He declared his “Marky Mark” man crush and praised his character and abilities on the field.

“Mark is an exceptionally exciting player and more importantly he is one of the nicest and most genuine I’ve people met,” V’landys told me.

“Yes, I did tell him I want him back ... I don’t want him leaving. I would do anything to do have Mark back. I’m so surprised that the RA [Rugby Australia] has not rolled out the red carpet to get this once-in-a-generation player back in the Wallaby team.”

Nawaqanitawase confirmed this week he has not yet decided on his international allegiance after it was reported he was considering playing for Fiji or Italy rather than Australia at next year’s Rugby World Cup.

“I just thought I would jump on here as there has been a lot of speculation on my future,” the 26-year-old winger wrote on Instagram.

“My only focus right now is moving to Japan in a couple of weeks and connecting with my new team … I will weigh up my options and make a decision next year on my international future. Love Marky.”

Even the most high-profile voice in rugby league, Phil Gould – who normally takes the “don’t let the door hit you on the backside” view when players walk out on the code – would love to see Nawaqanitawase back in the game.

“His talent is extraordinary,” Gould said. “I will miss him in league and I genuinely hope he returns because I’ve never seen a better skill set than what he has.”

Get well soon, Anthony

Anthony Maroon is the most entertaining rugby league........

© The Age