NRL Grand Final underscores Mark Nawaqanitawase’s unmatched brilliance—again

SYDNEY, SAITAMA, JAPAN, AUSTRALIA, 5 OCTOBER 2026 —

Mark Nawaqanitawase cements NRL legacy with premiership-winning grand final performance as Saitama-bound winger leaves Sydney Roosters

The 26-year-old winger finished his NRL tenure with an unprecedented 47 tries in 47 matches, including seven in his final four appearances, cementing his status as one of the most electrifying players in the sport’s history.

Nawaqanitawase’s departure marks the end of an era for the Roosters, whose coach Trent Robinson described him as "a bit of an adventurer" in a rare public reflection on the winger’s decision to switch codes. The move to Saitama—announced in January with a reported annual salary of $1.4 million—has sparked debate over whether rugby union has secured a steal, given Nawaqanitawase’s recent dominance in the NRL.

Robinson, however, remains hopeful the winger may return to the Roosters after his two-year stint in Japan, particularly given the timing of the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.

The grand final provided further evidence of Nawaqanitawase’s unmatched impact. His two tries, near-misses, and game-defining moments—including a four-pointer in the first half that defied expectation—highlighted his ability to single-handedly alter the trajectory of matches. Robinson recalled the winger’s arrival at Moore Park two years prior, when his physical limitations were evident, but his transformation into a premiership-winning force has been nothing short of extraordinary.

"When he gets the ball, you sort of go: OK, um, what’s going to happen here? What can he do?" Robinson said. "When other people get the ball in the same situation, you sort of know what’s going to happen. When Mark gets it, there’s like this energy that OK, he can do something here, always."

The Roosters’ victory over the Newcastle Knights—despite heavy support for the home team—was underpinned by Nawaqanitawase’s influence. His aerial dominance, audacious kicks, and late-game offloads disrupted Newcastle’s forward assault, while his physicality in tackles and carries became increasingly prominent. Even when he fell short of scoring, his contributions—such as the deflection that set up Kalyn Ponga’s try—demonstrated his ability to dictate play.

Robinson emphasized Nawaqanitawase’s versatility, noting how he redefined the winger position with his creativity and unpredictability. "I’m just trying to think of a winger that’s had as big an impact," Robinson said. "What Mark’s done from the wing, wingers touching the ball in so many different types and styles—that. I hope he’s created another generation of those types of players."

The winger’s departure leaves the NRL in a state of reflection, with many questioning whether rugby union has gained an asset of unparalleled value. His contract with Saitama, while initially controversial, now appears justified by his recent performances. The Roosters, meanwhile, face the challenge of rebuilding without their most dynamic player, though Robinson’s optimism about a potential return suggests the club remains invested in his long-term future.

For now, Nawaqanitawase’s legacy in the NRL is secure, with his two-year tenure delivering a premiership, State of Origin success, and a Wallabies career that has redefined cross-code athleticism.

The impact of Nawaqanitawase’s move extends beyond the Roosters, as his transition to rugby union could influence how other dual-code athletes navigate their careers. His ability to thrive in both codes—despite initial skepticism—underscores the growing fluidity between rugby league and union, particularly in Asia, where Saitama’s investment signals confidence in his adaptability.

The winger’s farewell performance in the grand final served as a reminder of why he was not just a player, but a phenomenon whose influence will be felt long after his boots are laced for the final time in the NRL.