Fresh off Australia’s three-nil Ashes series win in England and some down time travelling through the south of France, Mark Nawaqanitawase has showed he can sidestep curly questions just as neatly as he does defenders.
Speaking on the Unscripted podcast, the 2025 Dally M Winger of the Year was reluctant to divulge too many secrets about the recent Kangaroo Tour, describing the experience as ‘unreal.’
Asked for his personal highlight, Nawaqanitawase chose his words carefully, crediting the touring squad’s mix of experience and energy for striking the perfect balance—on and off the field.
“Let’s just say we had a few guys who are very ‘seasoned’ (with touring),” he elaborated with a grin.
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“When it came to training we were very locked in, but as soon as there wasn’t any training, or after the games, we knew how to clock off and enjoy the tour,” Nawaqanitawase added.
Pressed for stories, the Roosters winger stayed coy: “Everyone had a good time, but I couldn’t single out anyone.”
‘The quality of players is right up there’
Nawaqanitawase’s end-of-season Ashes selection saw him become Australia’s latest dual international, providing unique insight into the differences between the two rugby codes at international level in 2025, particularly in terms of skill levels.
“The two sports internationally are very different,” he admitted.
“Union has bigger touring squads, but with the Kangaroos the quality of players is just right up there—there are a lot of very, very good players right across the park.”
As for who would win a hybrid league–union showdown?
“Sport,” he said, once again at his tip-toeing best.
Looking ahead, Nawaqanitawase said he’s excited about working with former Wallabies coach Michael Cheika who joins Trent Robinson as a Roosters assistant for the NRL 2026 season—his final year before returning to rugby union and, hopefully, Wallabies selection for the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
For now, the reigning Ken Irvine Medallist as NRL top try-scorer remains one of rugby league’s most reliable finishers on the field—and when being diplomatic behind the microphone.