- METROArk Nawaqanitawase to make NRL debut
- They will line up for Roosters against Rabbitohs
- He represented Australia in rugby sevens at the Olympic Games
- He also played for the Wallabies at the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
Cross-code star Mark Nawaqanitawase will make his NRL debut this Friday for the Sydney Roosters.
The former Wallabies player signed for the Tricolours earlier this year but was unavailable for selection due to his Olympic commitments with the rugby sevens team in Paris.
Nawaqanitawase, 23, has been in electric form for the Roosters at NSW Cup level, averaging 173 metres per game.
He has also racked up 16 bust tackles, three line breaks, one try assist and two tries in his three appearances to date.
Nawaqanitawase is understood to be replacing Joseph Suaalii, who is battling a neck problem and is unlikely to be put at risk with the final looming.
After his first NSW Cup match, Nawaqanitawase didn’t feel out of place clutching a Steeden.
“I thought it was funny and that was good,” he told News Corp.
‘The first carry was good to get out of the way. I’m just trying to find my place and learn as much as I can.
Cross-code star Mark Nawaqanitawase will make his NRL debut for the Roosters on Friday
Nawaqanitawase’s rise comes as Trent Robinson’s side are plagued by injuries
‘All the guys put me in the right position and I just had to finish where they put me. I had some (nerves), always.
‘It was my first game and a lot of people will be wondering how I’m doing, me too.
“No matter where I play, I’m just grateful for the opportunity. Right now I’m just taking it week by week.”
The Roosters are reeling after season-ending injuries to Sam Walker and Brandon Smith last weekend against the Raiders, but burly teenage prop De La Salle Va’a has been named to make his top-flight debut.
Va’a graduated from school last year and has rapidly progressed through the ranks at Bondi.
He was also selected by the NSW Blues for the State of Origin Under-19 squad.