Richard Capstick

Few flankers exemplify the Exeter Chiefs forward identity more than Richard Capstick. Born on 13 February 2000, the back-rower came through the club's academy and went on to become one of the more recognisable young forwards on the Chiefs roster. Capstick is built for the modern flanker role: a willing ball carrier, a regular at the breakdown, and a tackler who throws himself at the work without complaint. He has been involved in the Chiefs' senior environment during one of the most successful periods in the club's history, and his game has been shaped by training alongside experienced internationals in the back row. England age-grade involvement marked him out as a forward of genuine promise, and at senior level his selection has expanded as he has matured physically and tactically. Like many in the position, Capstick's value is partly measured in numbers that do not make headlines — tackles completed, cleanouts won, and metres gained from the base — but coaches have spoken about his consistency and ability to absorb tactical detail. He sits in the part of his career where the next step is sustained Premiership starts, and Exeter have positioned him to grow into a long-term back-row presence.