Carlingford resident and Wallabies winger Mark Nawaqanitawase would love nothing more than to help Australia break their Rugby World Cup title drought when the tournament kicks off in France next month.
Nawaqanitawase arrived in Paris late last week, hoping to be part of the first Australian team since 1999 to bring home the elusive Webb Ellis Cup.
Speaking with Parra News prior to boarding his flight to the French capital, Nawaqanitawase said the ultimate goal is to bring the World Cup home to western Sydney.
“Obviously we’ll have some tough competition over there. Every team is there for a reason, but we’re going there to win it,” he declared.
“Hopefully in two months’ time when we’re coming back home, I’m on the phone to you with the World Cup sitting next to me. That’s what I plan to be doing.”
For Nawaqanitawase, the 2023 Rugby World Cup will be his first with the Wallabies.
In fact, new coach Eddie Jones said he’s selected a squad largely made up of younger players who are “going to take Australian rugby forward”.
Nawaqanitawase said he’s excited to be part of the youth movement at the Wallabies, and he can’t wait to rip in to his maiden World Cup.
“The Rugby World Cup is the pinnacle… it’s the highest achievement you can get in our sport,” the 22-year-old said.
“It’s something I’ve definitely been dreaming of and I’ve always wanted to have a crack at it.
“It’s really exciting and very special for myself and my family.”
As soon as Nawaqanitawase learned of his selection, it was his family who he contacted first to let them know the exciting and life changing news.
“We knew the date when we’d all find out. For me, I was trying to live in the moment and try not to worry about anything until the day actually came,” Nawaqanitawase said.
“When the day finally arrived, there were a few nervous boys waiting for the call. When I got the call, it was very special to hear that I’ve been selected to represent my country.
“I called my mum straight away, but she was at work. I then called my stepdad and my partner too. There were a few phone calls going on here and there.”
The Wallabies will play a warm-up match against France early next week before their tournament opener against Georgia on September 10.
Despite being relatively new to the Wallabies set-up, Nawaqanitawase is hoping to contribute in any way he can as the huge tournament gets closer.
“I just want to be confident and enjoy the experience, but ultimately I want to go out there and help the team win,” he said.
“I’m confident in the group that we’ve got and our coach Eddie, who gives us a lot of confidence.
“I’m going out there to let everyone know that we are here to play and come back with the trophy.”
Troy Dodds is Parra News' Managing Editor and Breaking News Reporter. He has more than 20 years experience as a journalist, working with some of Australia’s leading media organisations. In 2023, he was named Editor of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.