Mark Nawaqanitawase must earn Wallabies spot after NRL grand final
43 tries in 45 games haven't guaranteed him a Wallabies spot, coach Kiss says.
Nawaqanitawase plays his final NRL game this Sunday in the grand final against Newcastle. Nawaqanitawase then joins Japanese rugby side Panasonic Saitama Wild Knights.
Wallabies coach Les Kiss says he must earn his spot in the 2027 World Cup squad. Nawaqanitawase scored 43 tries in 45 NRL games and is hailed among rugby league's greatest wingers.
Kiss maintains no player receives automatic selection. Other candidates for his position include Isaac Henry, Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, Filipo Daugunu and Jordy Petaia.
- 43 tries in 45 games
- NRL tries record
- 11-Test Wallaby
- Test appearances
- Panasonic Saitama Wild Knights
- Next team
- 2027 in Australia
- World Cup year
Why it mattersThe 2027 World Cup is in Australia, and squad selection now will shape the Wallabies' chances at home.
AustraliaAn Australian player moving back to rugby for the first World Cup on home soil will face stiff competition despite his NRL success.
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