Barrett backs NRL converts to shine as Wallabies build toward 2027 World Cup

All Blacks star Jordie Barrett has backed Australia’s growing crop of NRL converts to thrive in rugby union, describing the cross-code movement as a genuine boost for the Wallabies ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup on home soil.

Barrett’s comments came as the Bledisloe Cup series prepares to conclude in Sydney, with Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii — one of the most high-profile league-to-union switchers — already in the Wallabies squad and impressing week by week. “Joseph’s improving every single week,” Barrett noted.

Angus Crichton is the latest name to follow that path. Fresh from helping the Sydney Roosters claim an NRL title, the back-rower is now turning his attention to the 2027 Super Rugby Pacific season with the Waratahs, reportedly targeting the No.12 jersey. That puts him on a potential collision course with Barrett himself, whose Hurricanes are scheduled to face the Waratahs in Round 4 next year.

“I’m sure he’ll be outstanding,” Barrett told reporters. “Big, athletic, great skill set, and correct me if I’m wrong, but he played a lot of rugby union throughout high school, and then got into league. So, look, all the boys that have made the transition have been outstanding.”

Mark Nawaqanitawase is another Roosters title-winner making his way back to union, having signed with Saitama Wild Knights in Japan Rugby League One ahead of the World Cup. The 26-year-old, who holds 11 Wallabies caps and is also eligible for Italy and Fiji, has ruled himself out of the upcoming Nations Championship to focus on his club season in Japan — and has similarly stepped away from Kangaroos consideration for the Rugby League World Cup, which opens this week with Australia hosting New Zealand in Sydney.

Barrett was equally warm on Nawaqanitawase’s prospects. “Mark’s already left a great mark in the Wallabies jersey, and he’ll be back, no doubt.”

Zac Lomax’s Super Rugby stint with the Western Force was also cited as evidence that the transition can work, with Barrett pointing to a pattern of NRL athletes adapting successfully to the union game.

With both codes converging in Sydney this week, Barrett revealed the All Blacks and the Kangaroos are sharing a hotel, adding an unusual edge to the build-up. “We’ve got the Kangaroos in our hotel, so that’s been interesting,” he grinned. The All Blacks also planned to meet members of the Kiwis squad ahead of Thursday’s Rugby League World Cup opener, including Moses Leo — a former All Blacks Sevens flyer now making his mark with the Melbourne Rebels.

“We’ll draw a lot of inspiration from two great rugby league countries going toe-to-toe, and we’ll do the same 48 hours later,” Barrett said.