Mark Nawaqanitawase was destined to be playing in Sunday’s Rugby World Cup clash in Saint Etienne. What side he ended up on was far less certain.
The links between the Australian and Fijian sides are plentiful, with the two nations set to face off for the fourth time at the World Cup.
Watch every game of the Rugby World Cup LIVE on Stan Sport. Start watching Stan Sport now.
Nawanqaitawase is one of seven in the Wallabies squad with Fijian heritage, with the likes of Marika Koroibete, Suliasi Vunivalu and Samu Kerevi born in Fiji
In fact, Koroibete made his international debut with Fiji in rugby league before making the switch to union and the Wallabies.
Nawanqaitawase, Rob Valetini, Langi Gleeson and Issak Fines-Leleiwasa all have Fijian heritage within their family, with the Waratahs' winger cousin Jone Koroiduadua named in the Fiji squad.
Eligible for both, Nawanqaitawase had to make a call towards the start of 2022, opting to play for his country of birth.
“Things change every now and then and I guess that was one of those moments where for a split second I was thinking of going down that path but I’m grateful for how things have turned out," the newly turned 23-year-old said.
There are links to Australia in the Fiji squad as well.
Lock Isoa Nasilasila was born in Campbelltown and made his name in the Shute Shield before signing with the Drua whilst head coach Simon Raiwalui played Australian Schoolboys alongside the likes of Joe Roff and Ben Tune.
He also went to a World Cup with the Wallabies under Michael Cheika as an assistant before taking over the Fiji job from Vern Cotter.
It adds special meaning to the contest, already a must-win game for the Fijians if they want to make it to the quarter-finals.
For the Australians, victory all but secures their path to the knockout stages, barring disaster against Wales and Portugal.
“It’s pretty special having that Fijian heritage," Nawanqaitawase added.
“I’ve been watching them ever since I’ve grown up with a few players that I’ve looked up to as well.
“It’ll be a special moment for myself and my family and it’ll be a very exciting match.”
