Joe Bailey set for Champions Cup debut as Chiefs face Ulster

Joe Bailey has received the call-up that many young players dream of – the chance to play in the Investec Champions Cup. Fresh from a gym session with his University of Exeter Rugby Football Club (EURFC) teammates on Monday morning, the 20-year-old received the news from Exeter Chiefs coaches that he would be part of the squad for this Friday’s clash against Ulster in Belfast.

“It’s a step in the right direction but there’s loads more work for me to do and then hopefully one day a Chiefs shirt will have my name on it,” Bailey says, reflecting on his hard work leading up to this moment. The World Rugby U20s Championship winner with England is no stranger to big games, but the Champions Cup is a whole other kettle of fish.

“I’m definitely nervous but more excited really, because I can’t wait to get out there,” Bailey admits. “Ulster is apparently a great atmosphere, so it’ll be great to get out there in front of their stadium. It’s the top level of club rugby, so there’s definitely a mix of emotions – excitement, nervousness – but it’ll be good.”

Bailey has steadily developed within the Chiefs environment, and his selection comes as no surprise to Rob Hunter, Forwards Coach at Exeter Chiefs. “Joe is a high action player. He gets through a lot of work – his clear-outs, his set piece and the basics of his game are really solid,” Hunter notes.

Exeter Chiefs are making 12 changes to their starting line-up ahead of the Ulster clash, with Bailey among those on the bench, potentially making his Champions Cup debut. This rotation highlights the need for fresh energy after a disappointing loss to Bordeaux Begles last weekend.

Director of Rugby Rob Baxter sees the game as a crucial test for his squad. “Following the Bordeaux result last weekend, this week we tried to speak to players very openly about everything as the reality is, it was a tough day,” Baxter says.

Emphasising the importance of team morale in high-pressure situations, “We wanted to make sure it didn’t create a divide in the group as the single most important thing right now is that we stay together as a group."

Baxter sees this as a pivotal challenge for the squad. “Every game is important, so we’re expecting this game against Ulster to give our players another chance to test themselves.”

With all eyes on the Kingspan Stadium this Friday, Bailey’s debut could mark the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the Chiefs.