Let's delve into the fascinating world of rugby and explore the journeys of the Exeter Chiefs team from the 2021 PREM Rugby final. This is a story of talent, ambition, and the ever-changing landscape of professional rugby.
The 2021 Final: A Tale of Near Triumph
Exeter Chiefs, under the guidance of Rob Baxter, put up a valiant fight in the 2021 PREM Rugby final against Harlequins. Despite a thrilling 40-38 loss, the team showcased their skill and determination, leaving a lasting impression on the rugby community.
Where Are They Now?
The Starting XV
Jack Nowell (15): A Cornish legend, Nowell's decade-long tenure with Exeter came to an end as he ventured across the Channel to France, where he continues to shine for La Rochelle.
Alex Cuthbert (14): The Welsh winger's journey took him from Cardiff to Exeter and back to Wales with the Ospreys. Now retired, Cuthbert shares his insights as a rugby pundit.
Henry Slade (13): Slade, an Exeter academy graduate, has been a consistent force for both the Chiefs and England. His career-best form continues to drive Exeter's success.
Ollie Devoto (12): Devoto's partnership with Slade was a key feature of Exeter's era. After leaving for Chicago Hounds, he continues to make his mark in the MLR.
Tom O'Flaherty (11): An underrated gem, O'Flaherty's move to Sale Sharks has seen him feature in another final, this time against Saracens.
Joe Simmonds (10): As captain, Simmonds led Exeter to a historic double. His journey took him to France with Pau, where he remains a key player.
Jack Maunder (9): Another academy product, Maunder's path led him to Australia and now to Agen in Pro D2.
Sam Simmonds (8): Sam's stellar season earned him a spot on the British and Irish Lions tour. He now plies his trade with Lyon in France.
Richard Capstick (7): Capstick's breakthrough campaign led to a starting spot in the 2021 final. He continues to represent Exeter and has been called up to the England A side.
Jannes Kirsten (6): The South African forward's four-year stint with Exeter saw him win PREM and Investec Champions Cup finals. He's now retired and pursuing a career outside rugby.
Jonny Hill (5): Hill's move to join his brother at Exeter saw him gain international recognition with England and the Lions. He now plays for Racing 92 in France.
Jonny Gray (4): Scotland's Gray was a shrewd signing for Exeter, but a knee injury saw him move to France with Bordeaux and later Perpignan.
Harry Williams (3): Williams' arrival at Sandy Park saw him become a mainstay, earning him a spot in the England squad. He's now back in the PREM with Harlequins.
Luke Cowan-Dickie (2): Cowan-Dickie, another Cornish talent, made his mark in Devon and was a key figure in the 2021 final. He continues to represent England and has made a second Lions tour.
Alec Hepburn (1): Hepburn's nine-year spell with Exeter saw him play in four PREM finals and win Test caps for England and Scotland. He now plays for the Scarlets in the URC.
The Replacements
Jack Yeandle (16): Yeandle, the long-standing club captain, has been a stalwart for Exeter, overseeing their rise to European champions. He recently signed a new deal, extending his stay.
Ben Moon (17): Moon, a one-club man, retired in 2023 and is now the director of Moon's self-storage and account manager at United Fixings.
Marcus Street (18): Street, a consistent member of the Chiefs' squad, now plays for Saracens and looks set to be their first-choice tighthead.
Sean Lonsdale (19): Lonsdale's 'Moneyball' recruitment saw him feature in the Chiefs' squad for five years before moving to the Dragons and then Ealing Trailfinders.
Don Armand (20): Armand, a fan favorite, retired from professional rugby and now works as a high-performance leadership coach.
Stu Townsend (21): Townsend, a three-time PREM finalist, now plays for Harlequins, the opposition from the 2021 final.
Harvey Skinner (22): Skinner, a product of Exeter's academy, continues to shine for the Chiefs, enjoying his best season yet.
Stuart Hogg (23): Hogg, a Scotland international, retired due to injury but made a comeback with Montpellier.
Deeper Analysis
The Exeter Chiefs' story is a testament to the fluid nature of professional rugby. The team's success has seen its players sought after by clubs across Europe, with many finding new challenges and opportunities. It's a reminder of the transient nature of sports careers and the constant evolution of teams.
Conclusion
As Exeter Chiefs prepare for their upcoming PREM Rugby final, it's fascinating to reflect on the journeys of these players. Their stories highlight the impact of individual talent and the collective strength of a well-led team. It's a reminder that, in rugby, as in life, the path to success is often filled with twists and turns, and the ability to adapt and evolve is key.
Personally, I find it inspiring to see how these athletes have navigated their careers, and it leaves me excited to see what the future holds for Exeter Chiefs and the wider rugby community.
