Sale Sharks, an English Premiership rugby club, has announced the signing of Fijian back-rower Elia Canakaivata on a two-year contract that will commence next season. The 29-year-old player is transferring from the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua, where he is currently active in the Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific campaign.
This announcement follows closely behind Sale’s acquisition of Canakaivata’s teammate from the Drua and the FIJI Water Flying Fijians, Ponipate Loganimasi, bolstering the club’s representation from the Pacific region.
Canakaivata has an impressive background, previously starring in the Fiji Sevens team, which clinched the Rugby World Cup Sevens title. His transition to the 15-a-side format has been marked by individual accolades, including being named Fiji’s Players’ Player of the Year last year.
Having already faced some of his future Sale teammates, including England’s Luke Cowan-Dickie and Asher Opoku-Fordjour during a match against England in November, Canakaivata is acquainted with the competitive level of play in the Premiership. He has started at No. 8 for the Fijian Drua in their opening two matches of the Super Rugby Pacific season and expresses eagerness about meeting the physical challenges in the Gallagher Premiership.
Canakaivata looks forward to playing alongside England star Tom Curry, whom he regards as one of the best players in his position. Sale’s Director of Rugby, Alex Sanderson, has praised Canakaivata’s work ethic, highlighting his defensive capabilities as well as his strength and ball-carrying skills. Sanderson believes his experience in Sevens rugby contributes to his endurance on the field.
In a show of commitment, both Canakaivata and Loganimasi will move their families to support each other both on and off the field as they integrate into the club.
Meanwhile, Canakaivata and the Fijian Drua are gearing up for an important matchup against the Hurricanes this weekend in Round 3 of the Super Rugby Pacific, set to take place at Churchill Park in Lautoka. The match will be broadcast live on FBC Sports via the Walesi set-top box.
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