Why star Roosters recruit was axed by 1-6 Tahs

Rugby World Cup winners Tim Horan and Mils Muliaina have supported Darren Coleman’s shock decision to axe Mark Nawaqanitawase from the 1-6 Waratahs.

The athletic Wallabies winger was one of Australia’s best performers last year and will join the NRL’s Sydney Roosters on a big money two year deal from 2025.

But the 23-year-old has struggled to make an impact for a losing NSW side and is yet to score a try after seven rounds of Super Rugby Pacific.

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“It’s been a big headache in our backline but a good headache to have. This week we have all of our contracted backs available which is unheard of. As a result, we’ve got some good players missing out.”

Wallabies legend Horan said it was a tough, but justifiable, call.