Exeter Chiefs back-rower receives two-match ban

Exeter Chiefs’ back-rower Jacques Vermeulen has been handed a two-match ban after being cited for dangerous play during last Saturday’s match against Saracens.

Vermeulen was charged with a breach of World Rugby Law 9.20, which relates to dangerous play in a ruck or maul. The case was heard on papers and chaired by Jeremy Summers, with Becky Essex and Olly Kohn in attendance.

Vermeulen admitted the charge, and the panel imposed a two-match ban, which will see him miss the upcoming Premiership Rugby Cup fixtures against Hartpury University on February 1 and Cornish Pirates on February 9.

Ahead of Saturday's Premiership Rugby Cup clash against Hartpury University, Rob Baxter has made a number of changes to his squad.

With several internationals away on Six Nations duty, loosehead prop Scott Sio will lead the team, with Dan Frost and Josh Iosefa-Scott partnering him in the front row. Rusi Tuima and Franco Molina will form the lock pairing, while Lewis Pearson, Ethan Roots, and Greg Fisilau complete the back row.

Director of Rugby Rob Baxter sees this Premiership Cup block as an essential opportunity for player development and team cohesion. “We’re a team that needs games and experiences. Going to Hartpury is a great rugby experience - it’s different from the Premiership, but it teaches us a lot about the players and the team. This Cup period is important, and we want to do well.”

With challenging weather expected, Baxter is focused on making the most of the conditions. “The weather will be tough, and the pitch will be softer than we’re used to, but those are the kinds of experiences that will help us grow as a team.”

Max Norey is named as the replacement hooker with Kwenzo Blose and Jimmy Roots on the bench, while Jack Dunne and Martin Moloney provide cover for the back five.

In the world of PWR, Exeter Chiefs Women’s Liv McGoverne is back from injury and set to start this Sunday’s match against Harlequins Women.

The New Zealander, who has played in both fly-half and centre this season, will take the No. 10 jersey for the match, filling in for Taylor Perry who picked up a hamstring strain during the 15th round loss to Sale Sharks.

Head coach Susie Appleby expressed her joy at McGoverne’s return, saying, “We’ve missed Liv. She’s a class player and brings a calmness to the game that we’ve needed. She’s pleased to be back, and we’re thrilled to have her.”

McGoverne’s return is part of a lineup shuffle for the Round 16 Premier 15s match, which sees scrum-half Flo Robinson, centre Nancy McGillivray, and wing Katie Buchanan all return to the backline. Merryn Dodge will move to full-back, and the front row welcomes Hope Rogers back alongside Emily Tuttosi and DaLeaka Menin.

With the Chiefs and Harlequins both coming off disappointing losses, the match will be a crucial one for both teams as they aim to secure their place in the top four of the league.

Appleby remains optimistic about her side’s chances, adding, “We’re not losing faith in ourselves. The top two is still achievable, and all focus has been on Harlequins this week. It’s an incredibly competitive league, and we’re excited to get out there and play again.”

With an exciting weekend ahead for our Chiefs, it's time to see if they can turn the pressure into diamonds!