Nawaqanitawase, Gordon granted early release to join NRL clubs

Mark Nawaqanitawase and Carter Gordon have been granted permission to leave their Rugby Union contracts early so they can join their NRL teams sooner this season.

Nawaqanitawase, who inked a two-year deal with the Sydney Roosters in 2025, is set to link up with the club once his Olympic commitments wrap up on July 27.

The Roosters have formally requested the NRL to fast-track Nawaqanitawase’s registration.

On the other hand, Gordon, who recently signed a two-year contract with the Gold Coast Titans, is now eligible to start playing for his team right away.

The 23-year-old, who previously played for the Wallabies at the 2023 Rugby World Cup, is said to be on a $600,000 contract.

The decision for Nawaqanitawase’s release was prompted by his exclusion from the Wallabies squad for the Rugby International Test matches.

Roosters coach Trent Robinson emphasised that their primary focus is on helping Nawaqanitawase transition into rugby league rather than rushing him into immediate NRL action.

“We do have a spot for him if needed, but our priority is ensuring he adjusts well and understands his environment,” stated Robinson.

With 10 rounds left of the regular season and the Titans’ injury woes worsening, Gordon could be the fresh face to help push the Titans into the top eight.

The top NRL bookmakers are pricing the Titans as a $41 hope to secure a top-eight finish for the 2024 NRL season, while the Roosters are $1.01 favourites to stay in the finals places.

Sports betting news