Sydney Roosters head coach Trent Robinson has confirmed that dynamic winger Mark Nawaqanitawase is poised to make his return from injury, giving him a platform to push for a State of Origin berth.
Nawaqanitawase Named on Bench for Raiders Clash
Nawaqanitawase has been included on the interchange bench for the Roosters' NRL fixture against the Canberra Raiders, following a syndesmosis injury that required surgery in May. The 25-year-old has been sidelined for several weeks but is now ready to resume action.
Speaking to the media, Robinson confirmed that Nawaqanitawase successfully completed training and is expected to take the field at GIO Stadium on Friday night, where conditions are forecast to be cool. His return is timely, as the coach revealed that stand-in winger Cody Ramsey will miss the match due to illness.
Robinson Cautions Against Reliance on Individual Brilliance
However, Robinson emphasized that the Tricolours cannot depend solely on Nawaqanitawase to ignite their attack, especially after two lackluster performances in which they managed only 16 points combined.
“He is looking well. Yesterday was the real test for us to make sure that he was right to tick off everything he needed after that syndesmosis,” Robinson said. “So it is looking good for him to play tomorrow. He is a high-quality player, but it is just a team concept rather than an individual that is going to change it.”
Origin Aspirations and Competition
The flyer was previously mentioned as a potential option for the New South Wales squad in the series opener. With the Blues' game two team announcement approaching, Nawaqanitawase will have a golden opportunity to state his case for a spot in the Origin arena.
However, his path to the No. 5 jersey is not straightforward. Incumbent Tolu Koula has cleared HIA protocols early, while Penrith young gun Casey McLean remains in contention. Both players present stiff competition for the winger role.
Raiders Aim to Spoil Return
Canberra Raiders coach Ricky Stuart is determined to spoil Nawaqanitawase's comeback, as his side looks to build consistency after a slow start to their minor premiership defence. The Raiders have struggled to find their rhythm but will be eager to turn their season around.
Meanwhile, rumours continue to swirl regarding barnstorming second-rower Hudson Young, who has reportedly intensified talks to remain in Canberra. Young’s contract expires at the end of the 2027 season, and he will be free to negotiate with other clubs from November 1. Stuart, however, is confident about retaining the talented forward.
“I am sure he will be a one-club player, and he has every capability in the world to be our captain at the club one day,” Stuart said. “He is a Raider, and his future is here, and he is such an integral part of the team. He had a lot of adversity as a young player that the club stuck by him with, and I feel his performances are for the club.”
Team Changes for Canberra
With centre Sebastian Kris sidelined due to concussion, Stuart has shifted Daine Laurie into the No. 3 jersey after impressive displays at lock and five-eighth in recent weeks. Additionally, Jayden Brailey returns to the lineup after recovering from concussion.
