Sharks To Sign Canakaivata

Sale Sharks have agreed a deal to sign powerful Flying Fijian back-rower Elia Canakaivata on a two-year deal from the start of the 2026/27 season.

The versatile 29-year-old, who can play on either flank or number 8, currently stars in Super Rugby for the Fijian Drua, where he has played since 2023.

Known for his powerful carries and breakdown dominance, Elia was originally part of Fiji’s extended 7s programme and represented Suva in the Skipper Cup, Fiji’s top provincial competition.

His breakthrough on the international stage came in Dubai (2021) with the Fiji Sevens team, where he went on to win multiple World Sevens Series titles and a silver medal at the Commonwealth Games.

He made the transition to the 15-a-side game and made such an impact that he earned Fiji’s Players’ Player of the Year award in 2025.

In total he has played 20 times for Fiji, and started in the number seven shirt in their defeat to England in the recent Autumn Series.

Outside of rugby, Elia is also a naval officer.

Elia said: “I’m excited about coming to play for a club like Sale Sharks in the Prem. It’s a great competition and a club with a lot of history and it’s a great opportunity for me to experience something different.

“I know some of the players from playing against them for Fiji. I can’t wait to play with Tom Curry because he’s one of the best players in the world in my position. 

“I love the physical side of the game so I think I will suit the style of Sale Sharks. I know Bill Mata from the national team so I’m looking forward to playing against him.”

Sharks Director of Rugby Alex Sanderson said: “Elia does a lot of work that maybe goes under the radar. He has fewer Hollywood moments but he’s a serious player on both sides of the ball.

“He loves tackling and using his physicality in defence, but he’s a really good ball carrier too. Because he came through the Sevens circuit, his work-rate is fantastic and I think he’ll make a really big impact here.

“His wife and Ponipate’s wife are good friends and they’re coming as two families to support each other on and off the field.”