Chay Fihaki, an emerging rugby talent with Fijian roots, has secured a contract with the Crusaders and Canterbury that extends until 2026.
Fihaki, a versatile back, showcased his skills during the 2024 season by starting in 12 of the 14 Super Rugby Pacific matches he participated in. The 23-year-old was also selected to play for the Barbarians against Fiji at Twickenham in June and is set to represent Canterbury in the 2024 Bunnings Warehouse NPC.
“I’m very pleased to continue my playing career with the Crusaders,” Fihaki expressed. “This club means so much to me and my family; it’s a special place. To play with this group around me, and with great support from coaches and team management, I’m excited to see where we can get to together over the next few seasons.”
Since making his debut with the Crusaders in 2021, Fihaki earned the number 15 jersey at the start of the 2024 season, making an impact by scoring two tries against the Chiefs in Round 1, including a remarkable 30-meter runaway try.
Having played extensively at fullback for the Crusaders and demonstrating his abilities as a winger and in the midfield, he has established himself as a vital member of the starting backline.