“Terrible Shame”: Phil Gould Reacts to Mark Nawaqanitawase’s Rugby Union Return in 2027
Sydney, Australia – October 26, 2023 – The rugby league world is reeling from the news that rising star Mark Nawaqanitawase has chosen to return to rugby union in 2027. The announcement has sparked considerable debate, with prominent figures like Phil Gould expressing their disappointment at the loss of such a talented player.
Nawaqanitawase, currently a standout winger for the New South Wales Waratahs in Super Rugby, made the switch from rugby league to rugby union as a teenager. His exceptional athleticism, aerial skills, and try-scoring ability quickly made him one of the most exciting prospects in Australian rugby. However, the lure of the NRL and the opportunity to play alongside some of the game’s biggest names proved too strong to resist, and he made a high-profile move to rugby league.
After several seasons in the NRL, Nawaqanitawase has now decided to return to his roots in rugby union. The decision, while personally motivated, has been met with criticism from some quarters, including veteran commentator and rugby league guru Phil Gould.
“It’s a terrible shame for rugby league,” Gould stated on his podcast. “Mark Nawaqanitawase is an exceptional talent, and to lose him back to rugby union is a blow for the game. He had the potential to be a long-term star in the NRL, and it’s disappointing that we won’t get to see him reach his full potential here.”
Gould acknowledged the challenges that rugby league faces in retaining young talent, particularly those who have a background in other sports. “Rugby union has a global appeal, and for some players, that’s a major drawcard,” he said. “We need to do more to make sure that our young stars see a long-term future in rugby league.”
The loss of Nawaqanitawase highlights the ongoing battle between rugby league and rugby union for the best athletes in Australia. Both codes offer unique opportunities and challenges, and players often face difficult decisions when choosing their sporting path.
While Gould lamented the departure of Nawaqanitawase, he also expressed optimism about the future of rugby league. “We have a lot of talented young players coming through the ranks,” he said. “We need to focus on developing those players and creating an environment where they want to stay in rugby league.”
The news of Nawaqanitawase’s return to rugby union serves as a reminder of the competitive landscape in Australian sport. Rugby league will need to continue to innovate and adapt to ensure that it remains an attractive option for the country’s best athletes. The departure of Nawaqanitawase is a setback, but it also presents an opportunity for rugby league to reflect on its strengths and weaknesses and to develop strategies for retaining its future stars. The impact of Nawaqanitawase’s decision will be felt for years to come, as both codes vie for supremacy in the Australian sporting landscape.
Leave a Reply