As the Gallagher Premiership heats up, the Exeter Chiefs are set to face off against Bath Rugby today at Sandy Park, a rematch that has fans buzzing with anticipation. After suffering a heavy defeat last month when Bath triumphed 48-14 to lift the Premiership Rugby Cup, the Chiefs are eager to turn the tables this time around. This encounter marks the second meeting of the season between these two fierce rivals, who previously battled in November, where Bath narrowly edged out Exeter with a 19-15 victory at the Recreation Ground.
Kick-off is scheduled for 3pm, and the match promises to deliver an exhilarating spectacle for rugby enthusiasts. Coverage of the game will be available live on TNT Sports 5, starting at 2.45pm, and fans can also stream the action online via discovery+. For those unable to attend the match, live updates will be provided by DevonLive and SomersetLive, ensuring that every moment of the action is captured.
The Exeter Chiefs have named a strong lineup for today’s clash, featuring some of their key players. The starting XV includes Josh Hodge at fullback, with Ben Hammersley and Henry Slade on the wings. The midfield is anchored by Joe Hawkins and Paul Brown-Bampoe, while Harvey Skinner takes the fly-half role and Tom Cairns plays scrum-half. Up front, Scott Sio leads the pack as loosehead prop, with Jack Yeandle at hooker and Marcus Street at tighthead. The second row features Rusiate Tuima and captain Dafydd Jenkins, while the back row is comprised of Martin Moloney, Richard Capstick, and Greg Fisilau.
On the bench, Exeter Chiefs have a solid lineup of replacements ready to make an impact. Max Norey, Kwenzo Blose, Jimmy Roots, Jacques Vermeulen, Ross Vintcent, Niall Armstrong, Will Haydon-Wood, and Will Rigg are all set to bring fresh energy to the game.
Bath Rugby, known for their attacking prowess, will also be looking to capitalize on their previous victory over Exeter. Their lineup features Tom de Glanville at fullback, with Ruaridh McConnochie and Max Ojomoh on the wings. The midfield sees Cameron Redpath and Will Muir pairing up, while Finn Russell, a key playmaker, directs the game from fly-half, with Ben Spencer captaining the side from scrum-half. The front row includes Francois van Wyk, Niall Annett, and Thomas du Toit, while the second row is made up of Ewan Richards and Charlie Ewels. The back row consists of Josh Bayliss, Miles Reid, and Arthur Green.
Bath's bench is equally formidable, featuring Tom Dunn, Beno Obano, Will Stuart, Ross Molony, Ted Hill, Louis Schreuder, Orlando Bailey, and Alfie Barbeary, all of whom have the potential to swing the momentum in their favor.
As the teams prepare for battle, the stakes are high. Exeter Chiefs will be motivated not only by the desire for redemption but also by the need to maintain their standing in the league. With Bath currently leading the table, today’s match could prove pivotal in the playoff race.
Referee Anthony Woodthorpe will oversee the match, assisted by Jonathan Cook and Greg Macdonald, with David Rose serving as the TMO. These officials will play a crucial role in ensuring the game flows smoothly and fairly.
Fans are encouraged to arrive early to Sandy Park to soak in the atmosphere and support their teams. The rivalry between Exeter and Bath is one of the most intense in rugby, and today’s match is sure to add another chapter to their storied history.
As the clock ticks down to kick-off, excitement builds among the supporters. Will the Chiefs avenge their previous defeat, or will Bath continue their dominance? One thing is for certain: this match is not to be missed.
