Chay Fihaki, a rising rugby talent of Fijian descent, has signed a contract with the Crusaders and Canterbury that will keep him with the teams until 2026. The versatile back had a standout 2024 season, starting 12 out of the 14 Super Rugby Pacific matches he participated in.
At just 23 years old, Fihaki has also been chosen to play for the Barbarians against Fiji at Twickenham in June and will represent Canterbury in the upcoming 2024 Bunnings Warehouse NPC.
“I’m very pleased to continue my playing career with the Crusaders,” said Fihaki. “This club means so much to me and my family; it’s a special place. To play with this incredible group and receive such strong support from the coaches and management, I’m excited to see what we can achieve together over the next few seasons.”
Since making his debut for the Crusaders in 2021, he took on the prestigious 15 jersey at the beginning of the 2024 season, where he scored two tries in the first round against the Chiefs, including a remarkable 30-meter runaway try. After spending significant time at fullback for the Crusaders and demonstrating his abilities as a winger and midfielder, he has established himself as a key player in the starting backline.