Former Wallabies head coach Ewen McKenzie has confidently predicted that Mark Nawaqanitawase will end up playing for Les Kiss’ side despite debate around his Test future.

After a hugely successful two-season spell in rugby league with the Sydney Roosters, the talented wing has returned to the 15-a-side code, looking to put himself in the frame for a Rugby World Cup call-up.

Who that will be for is the big question, however, with the change in World Rugby laws allowing him to pick between three countries.

Even though he has already earned 11 Wallabies caps, the last of those came at the 2023 global tournament.

Eligible for three countries

That means after completing a three-year stand down period, he can play for another nation that he has ancestral ties to.

Nawaqanitawase is eligible for Fiji due to his father and Italy because his grandmother, which means he has a decision to make.

That is one he is still in the process of making with the 26-year-old admitting that he has not yet made up his mind.

The speedster intimated that ‘winning’ is the big factor and with Australia not the force they once were, it means Kiss’ team is not necessarily an automatic pick.

It still appears to most likely option, though, and McKenzie believes that they will see him in a Wallabies jersey next year.

“People seem to forget he played for the Wallabies in the World Cup last time. He was in and out of the team, so he’s definitely improved; he’s been outstanding in rugby league,” he said on the Rugby Unity podcast.

“The question said he’s going to Japan to recover, well he’s going there to play in another competition, he’s getting paid big money to do that, so therein lies the reason he’s going there.

“Someone has to work out what his motivation is and where he sits. I’m sure Australia’s been doing that, I’m sure he’ll end up playing for Australia.

“I don’t think he will throw that out but it is a bit piggy that has been peddled through the media, that’s how it works these days.”

Set for Japan stint

Nawaqanitawase’s first focus will be on the Saitama Wild Knights having signed a deal with the Japanese club ahead of their 2026/27 season.

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Once that has concluded, the build-up to the World Cup begins, but McKenzie would like to see a bit more clarity from the back three star before then.

“I don’t know how much of it is him. He hasn’t made any clear statements, I don’t think. I’m probably looking for him to make some clear statements, just to tidy a few things up,” he said.

“That shows character and gives you an idea of what you’re getting.”