England international Ethan Roots signs new Exeter deal

Exeter Chiefs back-rower Ethan Roots has become the first member of the squad to put pen to paper on a contract extension this season.

Roots is in his third season as a Chief and has made over 50 appearances since signing from the Ospreys.

The New Zealand-born 28-year-old has been capped by England during his time at Sandy Park, with the last of his four Test appearances coming in the 2024 Six Nations.

“I have had both the toughest and best seasons of my career here. The area, the Chiefs lads, the fans and the club all have played a special role in my development as a person and as a player,” he said, explaining his decision to stay at the club.

“I can feel something building at the moment and I’m excited to extend my stay and help return Chiefs back to their former glory.”

While it has been nearly two years since he won the last of his senior caps, Roots’ earned an England A call-up against the All Blacks XV this November on the back his ball carrying and hard tackling performances in the PREM, and is clearly highly thought of as he was made captain for the prestigious fixture.

Director of rugby Rob Baxter said: “We’re delighted to have agreed a contract extension with Ethan. He’s been one of our most influential players since arriving from Ospreys.

“He’s a player that I think is getting better all the time, having a particularly good season this year. He’s really back to his absolute physical best, dominating some games with his collision quality and the work-rate he’s putting in around the field.

“He’s one of those players that we can build a really successful side around. He’s been key to the squad so far this season in what has been so far, a good start to the season for us. We’re really looking for him to be at the heart of the squad to be really challenging for honours as we go through the rest of this season and in future seasons.”