A positive update on the future of rugby star Henry Slade has been shared by Exeter Chiefs' boss, Rob Baxter. This news is a breath of fresh air for fans and the rugby community alike.
Henry Slade, a 32-year-old English rugby player, is a key member of the Exeter Chiefs squad and is on the verge of reaching an impressive 250 appearances for the club. With his contract ending this season, there was some uncertainty surrounding his future, but Baxter has provided an optimistic outlook.
Baxter reveals that negotiations with Slade have been productive, and he anticipates a successful resolution within the next few weeks. This is great news for the Chiefs, as Slade's experience and skill are invaluable to the team.
But here's where it gets interesting: Baxter mentions the R360 league, a potential rival competition, which has now been postponed until 2028. Despite the lure of this new league, Baxter believes Slade is content at Exeter and that his decision isn't solely based on financial gains. He expresses confidence in retaining Slade, stating, "I'd be surprised if Henry left."
Baxter adds, "We want the best players playing in England for English clubs. Keeping our competition strong is crucial for the growth of the sport."
And this is the part most people miss: Baxter hints at the challenges faced by the R360 league, suggesting that many within the rugby community had doubts about its success. He reveals that these expectations influenced their planning, indicating that the Chiefs were prepared for this potential development.
So, what do you think? Is Henry Slade's future with the Exeter Chiefs a done deal? Or could the R360 league still pose a threat? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below! Feel free to share your predictions and opinions on this exciting rugby news.