"Three England Stars" - Sale Sharks Splash the Cash On 11 New Signings
Rugby NewsWednesday, 22 April 2026 at 16:07
Sale Sharks have wasted no time flexing their financial muscle ahead of the 2026/27 campaign, assembling one of the most eye-catching recruitment drives in Premiership Rugby.
From established internationals to high-upside overseas talent, Alex Sanderson’s squad refresh signals clear intent. Here’s a closer look at each arrival.
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Joe Marchant (from Stade Français)
The return of Joe Marchant is a headline-grabber. After honing his game in France with Stade Français, the England centre brings pace, footwork and defensive intelligence. His ability to cover centre and wing gives Sale flexibility across the backline, and his experience abroad should add a new dimension to their attack.
Nicky Smith (from Leicester Tigers)
Welsh international prop Nicky Smith arrives from Leicester Tigers to bolster the front row. Known for his scrummaging solidity and work rate around the park, Smith adds much-needed depth and reliability in the tight exchanges.
Tomas Francis (from Provence)
Another experienced Welsh prop, Tomas Francis, returns to the Premiership after a stint in France with Provence Rugby. A proven Test operator, Francis strengthens Sale’s scrum and brings a wealth of international know-how at a crucial time.
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Alex Lozowski (from Saracens)
Creative back Alex Lozowski swaps Saracens for Sale in a move that adds versatility. Comfortable at fly-half, centre or full-back, Lozowski offers tactical kicking, distribution and composure—ideal for a side looking to evolve its attacking structure.
Ponepati Loganimasi (from Fijian Drua)
Explosive winger Ponepati Loganimasi joins from Fijian Drua, bringing raw pace and unpredictability. His sevens background and finishing ability could make him one of the Premiership’s most dangerous broken-field runners.
Elia Canakaivata (from Fijian Drua)
Back-row forward Elia Canakaivata arrives alongside his Drua teammate. A dynamic ball-carrier with international pedigree, he adds physicality and breakdown presence, as well as the kind of athleticism modern Premiership sides crave.
Cebo Dlamini (from Griquas)
South African prop Cebo Dlamini makes the switch from Griquas. A powerful scrummager, Dlamini fits Sale’s traditional emphasis on forward dominance and could prove a shrewd addition in the engine room.
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Christ Tshiunza (from Exeter Chiefs)
One of the most exciting young forwards in Britain, Christ Tshiunza departs Exeter Chiefs for a fresh challenge. Equally comfortable in the second row or back row, his athleticism and lineout ability make him a long-term cornerstone signing.
Courtney Lawes (from Brive)
A marquee addition, Courtney Lawes arrives from CA Brive. The former England captain brings leadership, physicality and elite defensive presence. Even in the latter stage of his career, Lawes remains a game-changing forward and a statement signing for the Sharks.
David Opoku-Fordjour (from Coventry)
Promising youngster David Opoku-Fordjour steps up from Coventry Rugby. A developing talent, this move represents both depth and future planning, with Sale investing in youth alongside marquee names.
JJ Scheepers (from Pumas)
Rounding off the recruitment drive is South African forward JJ Scheepers, who joins from the Pumas. A physical presence, Scheepers adds further grunt to an already reinforced pack.
The verdict
Sale Sharks haven’t just recruited—they’ve rebuilt with intent. A blend of international pedigree, Premiership experience and emerging talent suggests this is more than a refresh; it’s a statement of ambition. If these signings click, Sale could be serious title contenders next season.
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