Roots happy to commit to Chiefs' exciting future

Popular back rower becomes the first player to pledge his future at Sandy Park

- STUART JAMES [e-mail]

THE challenge of restoring Exeter Chiefs to the top of English rugby is what convinced Ethan Roots that his future was very much at Sandy Park after it was confirmed the popular back-rower had extended his stay with the club.

The New Zealand-born 28-year-old has become a firm fans favourite since joining the club from Ospreys ahead of the 2023/24 season with his form leading to international honours with England.

It has not been easy on the pitch for Roots, especially last season when the club finished 11th of the 12 Premiership clubs, but with a young squad getting better all the time, a few class signings and a different feel around the club right now, Roots had no hesitation in committing to that rosy future.