The Agenda Setters: Parker rejects Nawaqanitawase World Cup contract idea – Corey Parker has questioned reports Mark Nawaqanitawase could be offered a short-term NRL contract to remain available for Australia at the Rugby League World Cup.
Speaking on The Agenda Setters: Rugby League on Channel 7 and 7plus, Parker responded after David Riccio raised reports that the NRL may consider offering Nawaqanitawase a two-to-three-week contract before his expected move back to rugby union.
Riccio said Australia already had a strong squad, but asked whether Nawaqanitawase needed to be squeezed in for the World Cup. The discussion came as selectors and officials weigh the balance between rewarding players already in the system and making room for a high-profile cross-code option.
“There’s a little bit of chat. Reports have surfaced that the NRL may consider offering him a, I’ll call it a two to three week contract. So he can continue and be available for the World Cup before then venturing off to Rugby on a spring tour.”
David Riccio
Aaron Woods said that if Nawaqanitawase was able to secure a deal, he would select him.
“If he gets a deal. He’s in my team.”
Aaron Woods
Parker pushed back on the idea, saying the Australian side already named would be well placed for the tournament. He argued the current squad had enough quality to perform strongly without creating a special short-term arrangement for one player.
“I think that’s ridiculous to be offering a two week contract so somebody can go and play in the World Cup. That team you’ve got there is going to go very well in the World Cup.”
Corey Parker
The comments aired on The Agenda Setters: Rugby League on Channel 7 and 7plus. If republished, Seven has requested credit to the program on Channel 7 and 7plus.
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