The Exeter Chiefs’ Meteoric Rise: Assembling an All-Time Great XV

The meteoric rise of the Exeter Chiefs has been one of the biggest success stories in the BBC Rugby Union landscape. Once a sleeping giant during the early 2000s, the Exeter Chiefs have become one of the most decorated teams in English rugby union following their 2010 Premiership promotion.

Just seven years after earning a spot in the top flight, Rob Baxter’s men were crowned Premiership champions, and three years later, they achieved a historic double by winning both the Premiership and the Champions Cup. The Cornwall-based club has been blessed with some of the modern era’s finest players, and assembling an ultimate Exeter Chiefs XV would be a captivating endeavor for BBC Rugby Union enthusiasts.

Exeter Chiefs All-Time Great XV

Fullback

Starting at fullback, Welshman Phil Dollman kicked off a storied 11-year stint with the club, making 242 appearances and helping Exeter win two Premiership titles, two Premiership Cups, the Champions Cup, and the Championship title.

Wings

On the wing, the “golden generation” winger Jack Nowell made 173 appearances, winning two Premiership titles, three Premiership Cups, and the Champions Cup. Joining them on the wing is Matt Jess, a stalwart who played a pivotal role in Exeter’s 2010 Premiership promotion.

Centers

In the centers, Henry Slade has been the heartbeat of the side, amassing 224 appearances and 62 England caps, while the ever-consistent Ian Whitten racked up a staggering 280 appearances across the backline.

Fly-half and Scrum-half

At fly-half, the iconic Gareth Steenson became a club legend, registering 311 appearances and playing a crucial role in two of Exeter’s most historic victories. Complementing him at scrum-half is Australian Nic White, who made a significant impact during his 61-game spell with the Chiefs.

Pack

In the pack, Chiefs legend Richard Baxter holds the club’s appearance record with 431 games, while powerful back-rowers Sam Simmonds and Dave Ewers were integral parts of the “golden generation.” Locking down the second row are Tommy Hayes, former club captain, and Australian international Dean Mumm, a fan favorite. Anchoring the front row are tighthead prop Hoani Tui, a cult hero, hooker Luke Cowan-Dickie, and loosehead Ben Moon, who made 300 appearances for the club.

Director of Rugby

Overseeing this all-time great Exeter Chiefs XV is Director of Rugby Rob Baxter, the architect of the club’s meteoric rise and the most successful period in their history, winning two Premiership titles, three Premiership Cups, and the Champions Cup.

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