England forward Roots signs new Exeter deal

Exeter’s England back-rower Ethan Roots has signed a contract extension with the Prem club.

The 28-year-old moved to Sandy Park from Welsh side Ospreys in the summer of 2023.

He impressed in his first season, earning a call-up to Steve Borthwick’s England squad where he featured in four of their five Six Nations matches.

He has since been involved with England’s ‘A’ side and captained them in their game against a New Zealand XV last month.

Exeter have not disclosed the length of Roots’ new deal as the forward becomes the first player from the squad coming to the end of their contract in the summer to sign new terms.

“I have had both the toughest and best seasons of my career here,” Roots told the club website.

“The area, the Chiefs lads, the fans and the club all have played a special role in my development as a person and as a player.

“I can feel something building at the moment and I’m excited to extend my stay and help return Chiefs back to their former glory.”

New Zealand-born Roots, who qualifies for England through his English father, has played 55 times for Exeter, scoring 10 tries.

Exeter director of rugby Rob Baxter feels the forward is one of the club’s “most influential players”.

“He’s really back to his absolute physical best, dominating some games with his collision quality and the work-rate he’s putting in around the field,” Baxter added.

“He’s one of those players that we can build a really successful side around.

“He’s been key to the squad so far this season in what has been, so far, a good start to the season for us.

“We’re really looking for him to be at the heart of the squad to be really challenging for honours as we go through the rest of this season and in future seasons.”