A mid-season adjustment to the NRL’s eligibility rules has caused a stir, particularly with the recent disqualification of Sydney Roosters centre Mark Nawaqanitawase from the Dally M Rookie of the Year Award. Teammate Connor Watson voiced concern, suggesting that such a significant rule change should have been announced at the start of the season instead of just a few rounds before its conclusion.
Nawaqanitawase, a key contender for the accolade, was seen as a frontrunner for his outstanding performance this season, competing against fellow rookies including teammate Robert Toia and Warriors player Leka Halasima. However, the ARL Commission’s recent policy change now states that players must not have participated in more than five professional matches across any code, including rugby league and rugby union, in prior seasons. This new ruling affected Nawaqanitawase due to his past experience: he had played 11 matches for the Wallabies and represented Australia in rugby sevens at both the Commonwealth Games and the upcoming Paris Olympic Games.
After transitioning to rugby league only last year, Nawaqanitawase played one NRL game for the Roosters in 2024, before becoming a notable player with 17 appearances and 13 tries this season. The NRL’s chief executive Andrew Abdo highlighted that the change aims to reserve the Rookie of the Year award for players emerging through traditional pathways rather than those with extensive experience in other sports.
Watson echoed the sentiment that the timing of the decision was questionable, emphasizing Nawaqanitawase’s potential to win the award. He noted that while the rule now bears the cross-code star’s name, it reflects the impact he’s had within the team beyond just his playing capabilities. Mark’s positive influence and energy have been crucial in lifting the spirits of his teammates during a challenging season.
Previous winners of the Rookie of the Year Award, such as Mat Rogers, Jarryd Hayne, and Israel Folau—who similarly transitioned from rugby to league—have set a precedent for excellence, though they began their careers in rugby league. The controversy surrounding Nawaqanitawase serves as a reminder of the challenges faced when navigating the intersection of different sports and their governing rules.