Exeter make cross-code swoop for Sydney-based RL winger

Exeter Chiefs have signed winger/full-back Charlie Poynton from the South Sydney Rabbitohs for the 2026/27 season.

The 19-year-old, who was born in New Zealand, will provide cover for the injured Paul Brown-Bampoe and Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, who is on a break after international duty.

Poynton is no stranger to rugby union, having been part of the NSW Waratahs senior academy and played for their partner club, Manly Marlins.

At international level, in July 2024 Poynton was selected in the Australia U18s development squad by coach Shannon Fraser.

“Signing with Exeter Chiefs was an opportunity that really excited me,” said Poynton.

“The club has a great reputation and a strong vision for the future, and after speaking with the coaches and everyone involved, I felt it was the right environment for me to continue developing both as a player and as a person.

“I’m looking to make the most of the opportunity, keep improving every day and establish myself as a player at this level.

“I want to contribute to the team wherever I can, help the Chiefs achieve their goals and hopefully be part of a successful period for the club. I’m really excited to get started and see what we can get done this year.”

Chiefs’ director of rugby Rob Baxter said: “Charlie is an exciting, young English-qualified player who has been playing for Manly Marlins over in Australia.

“He’s had a bit of time playing rugby league as well, so we see him as a very multi-talented player who can slot in at 15 or wing. Those are slots where we haven’t got too many options, as with Paul Brown-Bampoe injured and Immanuel Feyi-Waboso not available to play until later following the internationals break.

“We felt it was important to try to strengthen that position while we could. When Charlie became available, we looked at the qualities he could bring and the opportunities this could create for him. We felt it was a great fit.”