Exeter Chiefs set to lose three more major stars at the end of the season

Friday, 09 February 2024 at 10:17

byRugby Rucker

Maintaining squad cohesion for the upcoming 2024/25 season presents a challenging balancing act for Exeter's director of rugby, Rob Baxter.

Over the last few years, Baxter had to make tough decisions, allowing players such as Jack Cowell, Sam Simmonds, Jonny Hill, and Joe Simmonds to depart.

This was a result of the club's inability to match wage offers elsewhere due to a reduced budget.

Looking ahead, the possible exit of at least one longstanding club stalwart, and potentially up to three, signals the potential conclusion of an era at Sandy Park.

#1. Jonny Gray

Gray is poised to depart from Exeter Chiefs, seeking a fresh challenge in France. Reports suggest that he has reached an agreement to join the Top 14 side Bordeaux-Bègles Union.

This notable move aligns with UBB's strategy to strengthen their squad, especially in anticipation of potential departures of former Wallaby Kane Douglas and Jandre Marais.

With 77 caps, Gray holds a prominent position in the Scottish squad and has played a pivotal role for Exeter Chiefs since his arrival from Glasgow Warriors in 2020.

Jonny Gray of Exeter Chiefs during the Gallagher Premiership Rugby Match between Bristol Bears and Exeter Chiefs at Ashton Gate on 23 Apr. Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK

#2. Patrick Schickerling

Schickerling has become Glasgow Warriors’ first new signing ahead of the 2024/25 campaign, after the tight-head prop agreed to make the move to Scotstoun from Exeter Chiefs this summer.

The 25-year-old has put pen to paper on a multi-year deal ahead of the new season, with the club having already extended the deals of Scotland internationals Scott Cummings, Jamie Bhatti and Johnny Matthews – as well as Head Coach Franco Smith – during the 2023/24 season.

A dynamic ball-carrier in the loose in addition to providing a solid platform at the set-piece, the tight-head has made 35 appearances to date in Exeter colours, scoring seven tries in the process.

Aidon Davis of Exeter Chiefs and Patrick Schickerling of Exeter Chiefs celebrates with the Premiership Rugby Cup during the Premiership Rugby Cup Final match between London Irish and Exeter Chiefs at The Gtech Community Stadium, London on 19 March 2023 (Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK)

#3. Henry Slade

Slade could be the next England star to depart Sandy park after he met with Top 14 side Stade Francais to discuss a possible move. This speculation originates from reports in .

The Rugby Paper

Curious about potential opportunities in the Top 14, the center has been actively investigating his options.

Stade, however, has not yet extended an offer, expressing uncertainty regarding the available spots for overseas players in their 2024/25 season.

On a positive note for Exeter, Slade's recall to the England squad is a favorable development for the Chiefs.

To sustain his international career beyond this summer, he must remain in the Gallagher Premiership.

Try Celebrations for Henry Slade of Exeter Chiefs as he goes over for a try to seal the Win during the Investec Champions Cup match between Exeter Chiefs and Munster at Sandy Park, Exeter on 17th Dec 2023. Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK