Sale Sharks, a leading team in the Gallagher Premiership, is reportedly in talks with Ponipate Loganimasi, a player from Swire Shipping Fijian Drua and the Fiji Water Flying Fijians, about a potential transfer to the club for the 2026-2027 season. Loganimasi has gained significant recognition, particularly following his achievement of winning a silver medal at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, which showcased his exceptional skills on a global platform.
Since joining the Flying Fijians in 2024, Loganimasi has made a remarkable transition from the national sevens team, despite having no prior experience in domestic 15s rugby. This unique accomplishment parallels the journey of his fellow team member Joji Nasova, highlighting the fascinating evolution of rugby talent in Fiji.
His debut performance in the Pacific Nations Cup was outstanding; he made a notable impact by scoring two crucial second-half tries in an impressive 47-17 win against Japan. Last season, Loganimasi further established his reputation as a key player, scoring six tries in 12 games for the Fijian Drua and solidifying his status as a rising star as the 2026 season approaches.
In a recent match, Loganimasi’s strong display at fullback contributed to the Flying Fijians’ narrow 33-27 victory over Canada, providing head coach Mick Byrne with a promising option in a position where depth is limited. Currently, Salesi Rayasi is the squad’s only specialist fullback, leaving Loganimasi as the most notable backup alongside other players sharing the role.
However, should Loganimasi choose to join the Sharks, challenges may surface, particularly regarding the fullback position for the Flying Fijians, which is already somewhat stretched. Historically, many Fijian players transitioning abroad have been utilized in different roles, often as wings or utility backs, prompting questions about how best to leverage Loganimasi’s talents.
In addition to Loganimasi, Sale Sharks are actively pursuing other recruitment opportunities. Head coach Alex Sanderson has recently welcomed former England center Joe Merchant from Stade Français and Welsh loosehead Nicky Smith from Leicester Tigers, reinforcing the club’s ambitions for the upcoming season. This strategic recruitment process emphasizes the Sharks’ commitment to fortifying their roster and enhancing their competitiveness within the Premiership.
As Loganimasi considers his options, fans and analysts are closely monitoring the situation, with the prospect of his transfer signaling potential positive developments for both his career and the teams he represents. The ongoing recruitment efforts by Sale Sharks indicate a bright future as they strive to bolster their performance for the seasons to come.