Capstick Re-Commits to Chiefs

Exeter Chiefs second rower Richard Capstick has committed his future to the club, signing a contract extension.

Returning from a neck injury that derailed his plans for the 2023/24 season, Capstick has forged himself into a key component of the Chiefs pack this year with formidable on-field displays.

“My family have been driving down here for years to support my career, so I always wanted to stay,” Capstick said on his decision to re-sign. “This is my home. I want to achieve things at my home club.

“I’ve always said some of my main aims were to play 100 games for this club, to win trophies and play with my mates. A lot of the boys I came through the academy with are still here, so I want to stay with them.

“I think we’re just at the start of our journey now as a group. I know we’ve had a tough season, but there have been some building blocks put in place this year that will help us moving forward. I think the future will be brighter.”

Raised playing rugby with his brothers, Capstick’s early days were spent as a Taunton RFC boy – a club he regularly goes back to as a supporter.

A true prospect in the sport from a young age, he was picked up by the Chiefs Academy at age 14 where he was mentored both in the sport and in his educational journey with Exeter College. Emerging through the Chiefs system gained Capstick international representation throughout the U17, U18 and U20 age-grades.

Cut to this season and it is rather apt that Capstick’s new contract is announced on the heels of an England A appearance against a strong Ireland A side at Ashton Gate.

Chiefs Director of Rugby Rob Baxter believes the young lock will add real strength to the squad he is assembling for the future.

“It’s fantastic to have Richard extending his stay with us. He’s had a very good season since his return from injury as he’s proved to be very good across the back five of the scrum for us.

“This season he’s maturing well and taking on some roles like taking charge at the lineout and calling that set piece. His good individual form has led to him having some time with England A recently which is great.

“He looks to be one of those guys who is still improving, taking on a bigger part in what we’re trying to do here as a group. He’s one of those players who I think the best is still to come from as we grow, mature and move forward as a team.

“He’s a homegrown player who we’re really pleased is staying involved with us. Again, it’s a good sign that we think our squad is heading in the right direction.”

Since his Chiefs debut in a Cup match against Bath in November 2018, Capstick has clocked up 79 appearances in all competitions with more still to come from the 25-year-old.

Capstick joins Greg Fisilau as the first two players to commit to Chiefs for the 2025/26 campaign.