Rob Baxter explains why Exeter Chief have only made one new signing for 2018/19

Director of rugby Rob Baxter has explained why Exeter Chiefs have made just one signing ahead of the 2018/19.

So far Alex Cuthbert is the Chief’s lone signing.

The Wales and British and Irish Lions international agreed a three-year deal with the Chiefs, leaving Cardiff Blues after seven years at the Arms Park.

Meanwhile they have lost the services of Will Chudley, Ed Holmes, Kai Horstmann, Shaun Malton, Julian Salvi and Thomas Waldrom – all who have either retired or found new clubs.

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The Chiefs have one of the best and most productive academy systems in England, but nevertheless, that the Devon-based side have signed just one player has raised eyebrows.

The squad at Sandy Park is unlikely to change, at least according to Baxter when speaking with Devon Live.

“What we’ve got here now, including the academy guys, will be what we start the season with. I would not be surprised if it is the group we finish the season with too, unless we have major injury issues,” Baxter told the website.

“We are very comfortable with what we have got over the next 12 months and these guys will see us through the season.”

The Chiefs have made a habit of doing things differently, and their recruitment has generally been less about the star power and more about identifying good fits for the club’s culture.

“We had an average age which was very good last season – it was the youngest in the Premiership.”

“So it wasn’t about going out and recruiting more players, it was about keeping this group together and letting them mature together.”

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