Where Are They Now? Exeter Chiefs 2021 Premiership Final Team

 

Where Are They Now? The Exeter Chiefs Team That Reached the 2021 Premiership Final

Exeter Chiefs are back in the Premiership Rugby Final for the first time since 2021 after producing a stunning comeback victory over Bath in the semi-finals. Rob Baxter's side fought back from a 16-point halftime deficit to win 27-26 and secure their place in another Twickenham showdown.

The achievement has brought back memories of the club's previous final appearance five years ago, when Exeter narrowly lost a thrilling contest against Harlequins. That 40-38 defeat marked the end of an era for several players who helped turn the Chiefs into one of England's most successful rugby teams.

Since that day, many members of the squad have moved on to new clubs, retired from professional rugby, or continued building their legacy at Sandy Park.

Here is a look at where the Exeter Chiefs players from the 2021 Premiership Final are today.

Jack Nowell

Jack Nowell was one of the most recognizable figures in Exeter's golden generation. The England international spent years establishing himself as one of the club's biggest stars and became a fan favorite thanks to his aggressive playing style and commitment on the field.

After leaving Exeter in 2023, Nowell moved to France and joined La Rochelle. He remains an important player for the French club and continues to compete at the highest level of European rugby.

Alex Cuthbert

Welsh winger Alex Cuthbert played an important role during his time at Sandy Park. After arriving from Cardiff, he became a regular selection and helped Exeter reach multiple major finals.

Following the 2021 final, Cuthbert returned to Wales and signed with Ospreys. He later retired from professional rugby and has since built a successful career as a rugby pundit and television analyst.

Henry Slade

Few players are as closely connected to Exeter Chiefs as Henry Slade. The England international centre remains one of the club's most influential players and continues to be a key figure in Rob Baxter's squad.

More than a decade after making his debut, Slade is still performing at an elite level and has played a major role in Exeter's return to the Premiership Final. His leadership and experience remain invaluable to the team.

Ollie Devoto

Ollie Devoto formed a strong midfield partnership with Slade during some of Exeter's most successful seasons.

After leaving the club in 2024, Ollie Devoto spent a brief period playing lower-division rugby before making the move to the United States. He currently represents Major League Rugby side Chicago Hounds and continues to enjoy his playing career overseas.

Tom O'Flaherty

Tom O'Flaherty often flew under the radar during Exeter's dominant years, but his contributions were significant.

The winger joined Sale Sharks in 2022 and has remained an important player for the northern club. He has continued to perform consistently in the Premiership and has become one of Sale's reliable backline options.

Joe Simmonds

Former Exeter captain Joe Simmonds led the club through one of the most successful periods in its history.

After leaving Sandy Park in 2023, he moved to France and joined Pau. Since then, he has become a regular starter and has helped the club establish itself as one of the surprise packages in the Top 14.

Jack Maunder

Scrum-half Jack Maunder spent many years developing through Exeter's academy before becoming a first-team regular.

His rugby journey has taken him around the world since leaving Devon. After a spell in Australia, he moved to France and currently plays for Agen in the Pro D2 competition.

Sam Simmonds

One of the most exciting back-row players of his generation, Sam Simmonds was at the peak of his powers during Exeter's run to the 2021 final.

The former England international left for France in 2023 and has since represented both Montpellier and Lyon. His pace and attacking ability continue to make him a dangerous player.

Richard Capstick

Richard Capstick remains one of the few members of that 2021 squad still wearing Exeter colours.

Having developed through the club's academy system, he has become an important member of the current squad and continues to build his reputation as one of England's promising back-row talents.

Jannes Kirsten

South African forward Jannes Kirsten enjoyed a successful spell with Exeter and played a key role in several memorable campaigns.

Following his departure from the Chiefs, he returned to South Africa before eventually retiring from professional rugby. Today, he has moved into life away from the game.

Jonny Hill

Jonny Hill became an England international during his time at Exeter and was one of the most physical locks in the Premiership.

After leaving the Chiefs, he joined Sale Sharks before making another move to France. He currently plays for Racing 92 and remains active in top-level rugby.

Jonny Gray

Scotland international Jonny Gray was an important addition to Exeter's squad during their successful period.

Injuries interrupted parts of his career, but he continued playing in France after leaving the Chiefs. He currently represents Perpignan and remains a respected figure in European rugby.

Harry Williams

Harry Williams developed into an England international during his time at Exeter.

Following spells in French rugby, the experienced prop returned to England and now plays for Harlequins. His experience continues to make him a valuable asset at Premiership level.

Luke Cowan-Dickie

One of Exeter's most successful academy graduates, Luke Cowan-Dickie remains one of England's leading hookers.

After joining Sale Sharks in 2023, he continued to impress both domestically and internationally. He remains a regular member of the England setup and has enjoyed continued success in the Premiership.

Alec Hepburn

Alec Hepburn spent nearly a decade at Sandy Park before moving on to a new challenge.

The experienced prop joined Scarlets and has become a dependable member of the Welsh regional side since his arrival.

The Replacements Who Moved On

Several members of Exeter's bench from the 2021 final have also experienced major career changes.

Club legend Jack Yeandle remains with Exeter and continues to add to his remarkable appearance record. Ben Moon retired after spending his entire professional career with the Chiefs.

Marcus Street left for Saracens and quickly established himself as a regular starter. Sean Lonsdale moved through several clubs and now plays for Ealing Trailfinders.

Don Armand retired from professional rugby and now works as a leadership coach, while Stu Townsend joined Harlequins after spending years with Exeter.

Harvey Skinner remains at Sandy Park and has become one of the key figures in the current squad. Meanwhile, former Scotland captain Stuart Hogg briefly retired before returning to professional rugby in France.

Rob Baxter Still Leading The Way

While many players have come and gone, one figure remains central to Exeter Chiefs' success.

Rob Baxter continues to lead the club he helped transform from a Championship side into one of the strongest teams in English rugby. Under his guidance, Exeter have won Premiership titles, European trophies, and established themselves as consistent contenders.

Five years after that heartbreaking defeat to Harlequins, Baxter now has another opportunity to guide the Chiefs to Premiership glory.

As Exeter prepare for another final, the memories of the 2021 squad serve as a reminder of how much the club has changed while still maintaining the culture and ambition that made them successful in the first place.