Club before country as Francis signs at Chiefs

WALES prop Tomas Francis has ended speculation over his immediate future by extending his contract at Exeter Chiefs.

- NEALE HARVEY

Francis, 28, is 12 games short of the magical 60-cap figure that allows him to represent Wales regardless of where he plays but is one of 30 players to have penned new deals for the Chiefs – including their crown jewels.

Pressure had mounted on 21st 4lbs (135kg) tighthead Francis to join a Welsh region when his current deal expired next summer.

In April, he said: “I understand the rules and see both sides. But it’s tough to see why I’d have to leave the club that gave me a chance.”

Facilitated by circumstances, that choice has now been made and Francis is not the only Chief happy to stay in Devon.