<h2>Mark Nawaqanitawase Set to Return to Rugby Union – Four Pointer Summary:</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>- &nbsp; Sydney Roosters star Mark Nawaqanitawase allegedly will not renew his contract and plans to leave the NRL after the 2026 season.</p> <p>- &nbsp; The prolific try-scorer intends to return to Rugby Union with an overseas franchise ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup.</p> <p>- &nbsp; Nawaqanitawase finished this season as the NRL’s leading try scorer with 24 four pointers.</p> <p>- &nbsp; Despite his planned departure, Nawaqanitawase remains in contention for Kevin Walters' upcoming Kangaroos squad.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Roosters Star Nawaqanitawase Charts NRL Exit</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Mark Nawaqanitawase's remarkable transition from rugby union to league appears destined for another dramatic twist, with the Sydney Roosters flyer reportedly planning his departure from the NRL after the 2026 season.</p> <p>The former Wallabies international has indicated to club officials that he will not extend his contract at Bondi, choosing instead to pursue a return to his original code.</p> <p>According to reports from The Sydney Morning Herald, Nawaqanitawase has made his intentions clear to Roosters management, signalling the end of what has been a sensational stint in rugby league.</p> <p>The decision comes despite his outstanding debut season in the NRL, where he topped the competition's try-scoring charts and established himself as one of the game's most electrifying attacking weapons.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Rugby World Cup Ambitions Drive Code Switch</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>The timing of Nawaqanitawase's planned departure aligns perfectly with Australia's hosting of the 2027 Rugby World Cup, a tournament that appears to be influencing his career trajectory.</p> <p>The former Olympic sevens representative is expected to sign with an overseas rugby union franchise upon completing his NRL commitments, positioning himself strategically for international selection.</p> <p>Recent changes to rugby union's eligibility criteria will work in Nawaqanitawase's favour, as players based overseas can now represent Australia at international level.</p> <p>This development removes a significant barrier that previously existed for dual-code athletes seeking to maintain their Test careers while playing abroad.</p> <p>The 25-year-old's rugby league journey began when he made the bold decision to leave the Waratahs and pursue opportunities in the NRL.</p> <p>His gamble has paid dividends, with spectacular performances on the wing earning recognition from new Kangaroos coach Kevin Walters, who is reportedly considering the speedster for selection in the upcoming Ashes series against England.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Impact on Roosters Future</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Nawaqanitawase's departure will force the Roosters into the transfer market as they seek to replace one of the competition's most prolific finishers.</p> <p>His ability to create highlight-reel moments has made him a fan favourite at Allianz Stadium, while his try-scoring prowess has been instrumental in the club's attacking strategies.</p> <p>The announcement provides the Roosters with valuable planning time, allowing them to identify potential replacements well in advance of the 2027 season.</p> <p>With Nawaqanitawase still contracted for the 2025 and 2026 campaigns, supporters can expect to witness more of his devastating pace and finishing ability over the next two seasons.</p> <p>For rugby union enthusiasts, Nawaqanitawase's planned return represents a significant boost to the code's talent pool ahead of the home World Cup.</p> <p>His NRL experience will have undoubtedly enhanced his skill set, potentially making him an even more dangerous proposition in the 15-man game.</p> <p>The saga demonstrates the fluid nature of modern professional rugby, where players increasingly view code-switching as a viable career strategy rather than a permanent commitment to either league or union.</p>