There is one player who was emerging as of late in the Waratahs. Look out for Mark Nawaqanitawase. He normally plays in the backline. Either at wing or full-back.
He might have a couple of games on the bench during Week 1 & 2. But his first start on 2021 went coming during Week 3 v Western Force at home. Mark instead started at full-back rather than on the wing. With Jack Maddocks part of the heavy loss v Brumbies away during Week 2. It does not mean Maddocks was dropped. But rather see a change of experiment between the two players.
Mark ran a lot of miles with covering up the backline. Where he has the height and strong physique to ground off the opposition. Not just in defense. But he can really kick via the cleanout. As well as communicating which would help give himself chances with the ball. And once he has the ball Mark just could not stop running until the very end. Thanks to some space needed to execute it perfectly.
Although his position switch did initially start to pay off. Despite not scoring any tries or assists. At least his presence did see the Tahs improve a few steps. Having seen them lead at half-time. But the only thing that struck against him is the cramps. After 60 minutes of play Mark had to call out for physio. And he just unable to hold out until the full 80. If he stayed then the result may have changed.
That would be the one key Waratahs player to watch this Friday. When they take on the Melbourne Rebels at AAMI Park. It will be on their turf for the first time in just over one year. Since the COVID pandemic began that halted all sports competitions for a while. It looks like that full-back is a position Mark wants to create long-term. He has played there throughout his junior career. And he is sending Jack Maddocks with big competition in this 15 shirt. The more, the merrier at the Waratahs. As they look to reboot their season after three losses.
