Double signing news for Exeter Chiefs

At just 26, Ikitau already boasts more than 100 professional appearances for the Brumbies and Australia. A powerful, creative centre, he joins the Chiefs from the ACT Brumbies following an impressive Super Rugby season and is set to arrive after this year’s Rugby Championship and British and Irish Lions series.

“I am very honoured to be joining Exeter Chiefs for the 2025/26 season,” said Ikitau.

“My family considers us very lucky to get to have this experience abroad with a club that is so iconic and respected, not to mention a place that loves its rugby with passionate fans."

“Speaking to Rob and hearing his plans for the club, and his willingness to work with Rugby Australia for my long-term development, made me confident the move was the right one."

Ikitau added: “Rob and the coaching staff have challenged me to take the next step as an on-field leader to drive success for the club. We are very excited to start our UK adventure and we’re looking forward to meeting all the loyal fans.”

Born in Brisbane but raised in New Zealand, Ikitau returned to Australia in 2012 before making his Brumbies debut in 2019. Since then, he has gone on to notch more than 60 appearances and 22 tries for the club. He made his Wallabies debut against France in 2021 and is now approaching 40 caps for the national side.

Chiefs Director of Rugby Rob Baxter said: “We’re absolutely delighted that we’ve been able to attract a player of Len’s quality and ability to Sandy Park. We’re certain that Len could be one of those guys who helps us ignite a very successful season next year.”

“He’s without doubt a world-class player, right on top of his form currently in Super Rugby. He’s very keen to experience something different and is looking forward to bringing his family and getting stuck into different competitions with us next season.”

Ikitau will link up with fellow Wallabies Tom Hooper and Scott Sio in Devon next season.

Meanwhile, club captain and Exeter stalwart Jack Yeandle has signed a new contract to extend his long association with the club into a 14th season.

Fresh off a try-scoring performance against Bath last weekend, the 35-year-old remains one of the most respected figures at Sandy Park and has clocked up over 300 appearances since joining from Doncaster Knights in 2012.

“I’m really looking forward to continuing as a Chief,” Yeandle said. “This is a special place to me. It’s a club I watched for years, enjoyed back at the County Ground as a youngster. I’ve seen some pretty amazing games here at Sandy Park and got to play in some too."

“It’s also about seeing boys you train with go on to achieve amazing things – boys getting picked for their countries or going on British and Irish Lions tours. To watch them progress in their careers as well is an honour.”

Yeandle lifted both the Premiership and Champions Cup trophies in 2020, and Baxter believes the hooker’s presence remains pivotal.

“Jack is one of the players that’s been here, seen it, done it with Exeter Chiefs,” said Baxter. “Without doubt, he’s one of the leaders who has really driven the culture here. He still maintains the highest standards.”

Baxter added that Yeandle’s renewal strengthens a hooker group that will include new signings Joseph Dweba and Julian Heaven, alongside homegrown talents Max Norey and Louie Gulley.