The Exeter Chiefs are reportedly close to securing Wallabies halfback Jake Gordon as part of their strategy to tap into Australian rugby talent. The club has already signed Wallabies centre Len Ikitau on a nine-month contract, which will commence following this year’s Rugby Championship, allowing Ikitau to return to Australia ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup. This arrangement means that while Ikitau will miss the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season, he will remain eligible for selection in Rugby Australia’s long-term plans, following the lead of New Zealand in adopting flexible contract options.
Exeter’s ambitious coach, Rob Baxter, has expressed optimism about enhancing his squad with more talents from Australia. He has successfully brought Wallabies forward Tom Hooper and Waratahs hooker Julian Heaven into the fold for next season. Baxter highlighted that they are on the lookout for experienced players, particularly in key positions like halfback, indicating that Gordon is a strong candidate due to his recent performance resurgence both at club and international levels.
Historically, the Exeter Chiefs have welcomed several Australian players, and Baxter aims to continue this trend. He praised Ikitau as a “fantastic player,” emphasising the club’s keen interest in adding him to their roster.
Former Wallabies halfback Nick Phipps, currently in Japan, applauded Ikitau’s move to Exeter as a beneficial opportunity for Australian rugby, suggesting that exposure to the competitive rugby environment in the UK would enhance his skills. Meanwhile, Michael Hooper, another ex-Wallabies player now playing overseas, has endorsed Rugby Australia’s initiative to explore creative contract arrangements, advocating for loan systems that would allow young Australian players to gain international experience.
Hooper pointed out the potential advantages for budding rugby talent aged 18-22, asserting that experiencing different playing styles and cultures abroad could be invaluable for their development. He encouraged Rugby Australia to cultivate these international partnerships, particularly to benefit emerging players like his teammate Toby Macpherson, who is on a unique loan arrangement from the Brumbies.
In summary, the Exeter Chiefs are actively seeking to enrich their squad with Australian talents like Jake Gordon and Len Ikitau while promoting innovative contract strategies that could help nurture the next generation of rugby players in Australia.