Exeter Chiefs forward Matt Postlethwaite forced to retire

Exeter Chiefs lock/flanker Matt Postlethwaite has been forced to retire at the age of 27 due to injury.

The Yorkshireman made just three competitive appearances for the Chiefs at the start of this season – all in the Premiership Cup – and has had to concede defeat in his battle to return to fitness after a lengthy rehab process.

Postlethwaite signed from Sale Sharks in the summer of 2023 and his Chiefs career got off to a flying start in September with try on debut in the 75-0 thrashing of Bristol.

He made a further start in the Cup against London Scottish but an appearance off the bench at Bath in October was unfortunately the last time the burly forward took to the pitch.

Postlethwaite originally came through the Yorkshire academy pathway before making over 50 appearances in six seasons at Sale Sharks.

Calling time on his career, he said: “It’s been a tough period of time for me, getting injured and then trying to come back following my operation. This is not how I would have wanted my time in the sport to come to an end, but I’ve loved every minute of my time at Exeter Chiefs.

“This club has a very special group of lads and I feel proud and privileged to have been a part of the team this year.

“I’d like to sincerely thank Rob Baxter and all the Chiefs staff for giving me the opportunity to have played for such a great club. The help they have also given me off the field has been invaluable.

“I’ve enjoyed my time in Devon so much that I plan to remain here with my family. I must thank them, especially my wife Kate, for the endless support they have given me throughout my career.

“I can’t wait to see what the club can go on to achieve, and I wish all of the boys the very best for the future.”