No.8 tells of his ‘only wish’

Bustling Swire Shipping Fijian Drua number eight Elia Canakaivata has dedicated his successful rugby career to his late father and namesake and older brother Lodoviko Degei.

The duo passed away in a horrific car accident in December 2020 and Canakaivata had only hoped they were still around to see all he has achieved in rugby.

The 29-year-old Navunisole, Tailevu native made his 45th appearance for the Drua on Saturday in their, 6-21, loss against Reds on Saturday.

His never-say-die attitude earned him the Drua’s Player of the Match award.

“First of all, I’d like to thank the Lord Almighty for His strength and the talent he blessed me with,” Canakaivata said.

“This is a great achievement for my rugby career, especially for my family. None of my grand-fathers or my parents have come this far. I lost two of my family members who always supported me when I was nothing and coming this far, I only wished they were alive to see how much I’ve achieved.

“If only we could turn back time to have them here and (for me) to thank them for the sacrifices they made for me.”

Canakaivata will depart the Drua at the end of this Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific season.

He has signed a two-year deal with English club Sale Sharks and will be playing in the Gallagher Premiership.

“Still a lot of games this season and I will give my best for the remaining matches,” he added.

The versatile player has scored 11 tries for the Drua so far and made 20 appearances for the Flying Fijians.