Chay Fihaki, a rising rugby talent of Fijian descent, has signed with the Crusaders and Canterbury through 2026. As a versatile back, Fihaki had an outstanding 2024 season, starting in 12 of the 14 Super Rugby Pacific matches he played.
At just 23 years old, he was chosen 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, along with the 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 for the Crusaders in 2021, he secured the number 15 jersey at the beginning of the 2024 season, where he scored two tries in the opening round against the Chiefs, including a remarkable 30-meter runaway try. After spending considerable time at fullback and showcasing his skills on the wing and in midfield, he has established himself as a crucial player in the starting backline.