Australia internationals Len Ikitau and Tom Hooper are set to make their Exeter debuts in an upcoming match against Harlequins. This game, part of the Premiership, will showcase Ikitau as a significant addition to Exeter’s roster.
Debut Announcement
Len Ikitau, aged 27, stands out as Exeter’s most notable signing among backs in recent seasons. He will join forces with England’s Henry Slade in the midfield. The team boasts an impressive lineup, featuring Paul Brown-Bampoe and England star Immanuel Feyi-Waboso on the wings. Josh Hodge also returns as full-back after serving a two-match suspension.
Team Composition
Tom Hooper, Ikitau’s teammate from the Wallabies, will play at flanker. The back row also includes Ethan Roots in the openside position and Greg Fisilau at number eight. Exeter’s director of rugby, Rob Baxter, expressed his enthusiasm for the new signings.
- Debut Players:
- Len Ikitau (Centre)
- Tom Hooper (Flanker)
- Key Backs:
- Henry Slade
- Immanuel Feyi-Waboso
- Paul Brown-Bampoe
- Full-Back: Josh Hodge
Baxter noted that both players have integrated smoothly into the team. “Len has been here a little longer, so he’s acclimatised well. Tom has arrived ready to contribute,” he stated. “They’ve done everything possible to fit in from day one. The team has welcomed them, and we are all thrilled to have them on board.”
Exeter’s Complete Lineup
The full squad for the upcoming match includes:
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Full-Back | Josh Hodge |
| Wing | Immanuel Feyi-Waboso |
| Centre | Henry Slade |
| Centre | Len Ikitau |
| Wing | Paul Brown-Bampoe |
| Lock | Skinner |
| Scrum Half | Varney |
| Prop | Goodrick-Clarke |
| Hooker | Dweba |
| Prop | Iosefa-Scott |
| Lock | Jenkins (captain) |
| Flanker | Tom Hooper |
| Flanker | Ethan Roots |
| Number Eight | Greg Fisilau |
The replacements include Yeandle, Sio, Tchumbadze, Zambonin, Pearson, James, Chapman, and Hammersley. The match promises to be an exciting one as Exeter integrates these talented players into their game plan.
