Exeter vs Gloucester: Crucial PREM Cup Clash at Sandy Park

Exeter Chiefs Host Gloucester Rugby in Pivotal PREM Cup Encounter

The race for the PREM Rugby Cup semi-finals intensifies this Valentine's Day as Exeter Chiefs prepare to host fierce rivals Gloucester Rugby at Sandy Park. This penultimate pool match in Pool A is shaping up to be a full-blooded contest, with both sides understanding the significant implications for their knockout stage aspirations.

Roots Returns to Lead the Chiefs

A significant boost for Exeter Chiefs is the return of England A captain Ethan Roots, who will lead the side in this crucial fixture. Fresh from captaining England A to a victory over Ireland in Thomond Park, Roots brings his formidable leadership and presence to the Chiefs' back-row. His inclusion is a clear statement of intent from Director of Rugby Rob Baxter, who is expecting a highly competitive encounter.

Baxter commented on the impending clash, stating, "I’m expecting it to be a full-blooded game this weekend, Gloucester are coming here with a real opportunity to get positive momentum in the competition." This sentiment underscores the importance of the fixture, not just for league standings but for building momentum heading into the latter stages of the season.

Team News and Line-up Analysis

Exeter Chiefs have made several key changes to their lineup following their recent performances. Max Norey returns to start at hooker, flanked by loosehead prop Will Goodrick-Clarke and tighthead Josh Iosefa-Scott, forming a strong front-row unit. In the second row, Richard Capstick partners Rusi Tuima, with Lewis Pearson being rested after a minor knee knock. This moves Roots into the open back-row alongside Martin Moloney and Finn Worley Brady, creating a dynamic and mobile unit.

The half-back pairing sees Charlie Chapman starting at scrum-half, with Harvey Skinner returning at fly-half. This combination offers a blend of tactical awareness and attacking flair. The centre partnership is a young and exciting one, with Ollie Batson at inside centre and Zack Wimbush outside him, looking to exploit any gaps in the Gloucester defence.

On the wings, Paul Brown-Bampoe earns a starting spot after an impressive try-scoring performance off the bench against Bristol Bears. He lines up alongside Campbell Ridl, with the electric Josh Hodge completing the back three at full-back. The blend of youth and experience across the backline suggests an attacking intent from the Chiefs.

The Stakes are High: Knockout Hopes on the Line

Rob Baxter was candid about the pressure on both teams: "Looking at the way the table lies, and the fact we have a bye-week in the final pool round, it looks like we have to win this game and the next to be in with a chance for the semi-finals. So, there’s a bit of pressure on both sides." With a bye in the final pool round, this match against Gloucester is effectively a must-win for Exeter if they are to harbour realistic hopes of progressing to the semi-finals.

Gloucester Rugby will also be acutely aware of the stakes. A victory for the Cherry and Whites would significantly bolster their own chances of securing a top-two spot in Pool A, setting up a thrilling conclusion to the group stage. The tactical battle between the two coaching teams will be as captivating as the physical contest on the pitch.

Bench Strength and Tactical Options

The Exeter Chiefs bench features a traditional 5-3 split, offering strong coverage across the forward and back divisions. Hooker Julian Heaven, along with props Khwezi Mona and Jimmy Roots, provide experienced front-row replacements. Youngsters Oscar Beckerleg and Joe Bailey cover the back-five positions, ready to make an impact. The half-back replacement pairing of Tom Cairns and Ben Coen offers tactical flexibility, while Dan John rounds out the matchday squad, providing a versatile option.

Match Details and Ticket Information

The crucial PREM Cup fixture between Exeter Chiefs and Gloucester Rugby kicks off at 14:00 GMT on Valentine's Day, Saturday 14th February 2026, at Sandy Park, Exeter. For fans eager to witness this high-stakes encounter, tickets are still available for purchase on the Exeter Chiefs club website.

Exeter Chiefs Starting XV:

• 15 Josh Hodge
• 14 Paul Brown-Bampoe
• 13 Zack Wimbush
• 12 Ollie Batson
• 11 Campbell Ridl
• 10 Harvey Skinner
• 9 Charlie Chapman
• 1 Will Goodrick-Clarke
• 2 Max Norey
• 3 Josh Iosefa-Scott
• 4 Richard Capstick
• 5 Rusi Tuima
• 6 Martin Moloney
• 7 Finn Worley Brady
• 8 Ethan Roots (c)

Exeter Chiefs Replacements:

• 16 Julian Heaven
• 17 Khwezi Mona
• 18 Jimmy Roots
• 19 Oscar Beckerleg
• 20 Joe Bailey
• 21 Tom Cairns
• 22 Ben Coen
• 23 Dan John