Walters open to Nawaqanitawase playing for Australia in RLWC

With the NRL exploring the possibility of extending Mark Nawaqanitawase’s contract to play in this year’s Rugby League World Cup, Australian coach Kevin Walters would be open to the Roosters’ star representing the Kangaroos once again.

Since joining the NRL with the Tricolours in 2024, the former Wallaby has been a revelation on the wing, having averaged a try per game.

As a result, the 25-year-old has received call-ups from Walters to play for the Kangaroos in last year’s Rugby League Ashes and NSW in this year’s State of Origin series.

Currently, Nawaqanitawase is expected to go back to Rugby Union with Japanese side Saitama Panasonic Wild Knights after this NRL season.

But reports emerged on Monday that the NRL was considering extending his contract from October 31 to mid-November, making him available to play for the entirety of this year’s Rugby League World Cup before he heads to Japan in a bid to play for the Wallabies for next year’s Rugby World Cup.

When asked about the possibility of having the winger be available for selection, the Broncos legend noted that Nawaqanitawase will be in the conersation.

“We'll have those conversations,” Walters told SEN’s Kick Off.

“I'll let all of those players just get through Origin, and then we can sort out their availability for the World Cup and start looking at who is available for selection.

“(With) Mark, I didn't think he was in the picture or in the frame for it, but if he is, well certainly we've gotta have a good look at him, haven't we?

“There's a few selectors, not just myself, but there's two Queensland selectors and two provided from New South Wales, so of course we'd sit down and have a chat.

“Mark was in the Kangaroos team last year, and he's obviously a very talented player, and he showed through Origin that he's right in the picture (for selection).

“If he was available to be selected, I wouldn't have a problem with him playing on the wing for Australia.”

The Rugby League World Cup takes place in Australia, with matches also held in New Zealand and PNG from October 15.

Australia begins their campaign against New Zealand in the opening match of the tournament at Allianz Stadium in Sydney.