Rugby League Scores Major Coup as Sevens Star Nathan Lawson Joins NRL’s St George-Illawarra Dragons

Sydney, Australia – In a significant move that highlights the ongoing exchange between rugby’s two codes, Australian rugby sevens star Nathan Lawson has reportedly signed a two-year deal with the NRL’s St George-Illawarra Dragons.

Lawson, who was recently crowned Australia’s Sevens Player of the Year, will make the transition from the 7-a-side format to the 13-man code, joining the Dragons ahead of their 2025 pre-season preparations.

The versatile forward, known for his ability to play in multiple positions in Sevens, is expected to bring that same adaptability to the NRL as he takes on the challenge of the league game.

This development comes at a time when player trades between rugby union and rugby league have been intensely debated, with high-profile moves like Joseph Sua’ali’i’s switch from the NRL to Australian rugby union, and Wallabies star Mark Nawaqanitawase’s return to league by joining the Sydney Roosters.

Rugby league legend Martin Offiah has even suggested that NRL and England duo Dom Young and Herbie Farnworth could potentially thrive in a union environment, mirroring the success of previous league converts.

However, in this instance, it is rugby league that has struck a significant blow, securing the services of one of Sevens rugby’s brightest talents in Lawson. The move will undoubtedly be a significant loss for the Sevens game in Australia, as it parts ways with a key player in its ranks.

As the exchange between the two codes continues, this latest signing by the St George-Illawarra Dragons underscores rugby league’s ability to attract and retain top-tier talent, even from the fast-paced and dynamic world of rugby sevens.

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