News of Mark Nawaqanitawase's decision to return to rugby after the 2026 NRL season has been met with raucous applause from union fans and typical groaning from some in league circles.

The lure of playing in a home Rugby World Cup in 2027 was just too good to bypass for the man they call 'Marky Mark.'

While it's a huge boost for the profile of the Wallabies and that tournament, it's expected Nawaqanitawase will ply his club trade in Japan or France, meaning fans aren't likely to see the talented outside back playing rugby on Australian soil for nearly two years.

Watch the 2025 Bledisloe Cup and Rugby Championship with every match streaming live and on demand on the home of rugby, Stan Sport

It will be worth the wait.

Playing abroad will also mean Rugby Australia has to pay next to not

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