MARK Nawaqanitawase has caught the eye of the Fiji Rugby Union.
FRU chief executive Koli Sewabu said the union was aware of the potential switch the Australian-born Fijian-Italian dual-code rugger could make for next year’s Rugby World Cup in Australia.
“We are aware of the potential switch Mark (Nawaqanitawase) could make at the next World Cup and follow this with interest,” Sewabu said in a statement released last night.
“Mark is an outstanding player and there would be genuine interest from Fiji Rugby,” he added.
“Ultimately, it’s up to Mark what jersey he wears but let’s be honest, (the colour) white might really look good on him on a nice spring day in Newcastle,” Sewabu alluded to the white Flying Fijians jersey.
The statement by Sewabu concluded by stating the FRU supported the choice he made and wished him all the best.
Fiji’s latest opinion on Nawaqanitawase’s potential allegiance comes after recent Australian media reports stated he is open to all options regarding his international future.
This was stated by his agent Milan Volavola-Shankar, who said his heritage of Fijian and Italian origin made him eligible for both countries.
“Mark will not be available for international rugby this year,” Shankar was quoted in Australian media reports.
“With his heritage making him eligible to represent both Italy and Fiji, he remains open to all options regarding his international future.”
Nawaqanitawase’s Fijian heritage stems from his father and rugby league veteran Sevuloni Nawaqanitawase, who hails from Nalebaleba, Nadroga.
His mother Fiona Tovehi is Australian of Italian origin.
Meanwhile, the switch has also lingered in the mind of Australian Wallabies head coach Les Kiss, who sought for him in the lead-up to their ongoing Bledisloe Cup campaign.
“I haven’t heard back from him yet, but we’ll see,” Kiss told reporters in Auckland, New Zealand last Thursday.
Following a stellar conclusion to his NRL stint with the Sydney Roosters, he has signed onto the Saitama Wild Knights in Japan on a lucrative two-year deal.
However, for Flying Fijian fans and rugby pundits worldwide, whether he gives the nod to don the white jumper or not is something only time will tell.
