RUGBY cross-code star Mark Nawaqanitawase moves to Japan later this year to join the Saitama Wild Knights after a four-year stint with the Sydney Roosters in the NRL.
In a statement released by the Wild Knights, it relayed how he acknowledged his new home later in the year as a strong and experienced side with a rich history.
“They are a very strong team that has experienced a lot of success and it is a club which carries a rich history,” the statement said.
“I am looking forward to becoming part of the Wild Knights and I am looking forward to what we can build together in the future.”
The club also did not disclose the length of his contract however Australian media reports he signed what has been described as a lucrative two-year deal.
He will also remain with the Roosters for the entire 2026 season of the NRL.
Meanwhile, according to Australian sports media platform CODE Sports, it said Nawaqanitawase expressed his intention to help the Roosters win the premiership this year before making his exit from league to union.
“I want to walk out of here with a premiership with the lads,” he told CODE Sports.
At his new club, Nawaqanitawase will play alongside former Australian Wallabies and Fiji-born winger Marika Koroibete.
The Saitama Wild Knights is a professional Japanese rugby union team located in the city of Kumagaya, in the Saitama Prefecture.
It was created in 1960 by students and workers of the former Japanese electronics manufacturer Sanyo.
