The stage is set for Len Ikitau, the Wallabies sensation, to ignite the Exeter Chiefs' lineup after his recent arrival post-Rugby Championship. Exeter Chiefs' director of rugby, Rob Baxter, expressed optimism about Ikitau’s potential debut in the upcoming PREM clash against Harlequins. Having landed in the South West fresh from international duties, Ikitau is tipped to soon make his mark at Sandy Park.
Baxter didn't rush Ikitau into the lineup for this weekend's game against Bristol Bears, citing the need for him to acclimatize. "We’re not expecting too much from him in the first day or two while he gets over the jetlag and the travel stresses,” Baxter explained. Despite the delay, the anticipation builds as Ikitau is set to blend into a squad already rich with Australian talent like Scott Sio, Nic White, and Dean Mumm.
Throughout the summer, Ikitau's form has been nothing short of impressive, making significant impacts during the Rugby Championship and the British and Irish Lions Test series. His ability to break lines and score makes him a valuable asset to the Chiefs. Baxter clearly intends to maximize this potential, stating,
"He’s an X-factor player, but with the solidity you need week-in-week-out in the PREM."
While acknowledging the new recruit's need to adapt to the team's calls and structures, Baxter is confident in Ikitau’s swift integration.
"But with good players, you often find that rugby is still rugby. That’s the key for us, to get him on the ball."
Baxter’s strategy involves leveraging Ikitau’s dynamic play to enhance the team's offensive tactics, similar to how players like Paul Brown-Bampoe and Immanuel Feyi-Waboso are utilized. The excitement around Ikitau's impending debut reflects not only his individual prowess but also the potential for a 'stuff of dreams' partnership within the Chiefs' backline. As the countdown to his first game in a Chiefs jersey continues, both fans and teammates alike are eager to see just how much of a difference this Wallaby star can make in the PREM.
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The stage is set for Len Ikitau, the Wallabies sensation, to ignite the Exeter Chiefs' lineup after his recent arrival post-Rugby Championship. Exeter Chiefs' director of rugby, Rob Baxter, expressed optimism about Ikitau’s potential debut in the upcoming PREM clash against Harlequins. Having landed in the South West fresh from international duties, Ikitau is tipped to soon make his mark at Sandy Park.
Baxter didn't rush Ikitau into the lineup for this weekend's game against Bristol Bears, citing the need for him to acclimatize. "We’re not expecting too much from him in the first day or two while he gets over the jetlag and the travel stresses,” Baxter explained. Despite the delay, the anticipation builds as Ikitau is set to blend into a squad already rich with Australian talent like Scott Sio, Nic White, and Dean Mumm.
Throughout the summer, Ikitau's form has been nothing short of impressive, making significant impacts during the Rugby Championship and the British and Irish Lions Test series. His ability to break lines and score makes him a valuable asset to the Chiefs. Baxter clearly intends to maximize this potential, stating,
"He’s an X-factor player, but with the solidity you need week-in-week-out in the PREM."
While acknowledging the new recruit's need to adapt to the team's calls and structures, Baxter is confident in Ikitau’s swift integration.
"But with good players, you often find that rugby is still rugby. That’s the key for us, to get him on the ball."
Baxter’s strategy involves leveraging Ikitau’s dynamic play to enhance the team's offensive tactics, similar to how players like Paul Brown-Bampoe and Immanuel Feyi-Waboso are utilized. The excitement around Ikitau's impending debut reflects not only his individual prowess but also the potential for a 'stuff of dreams' partnership within the Chiefs' backline. As the countdown to his first game in a Chiefs jersey continues, both fans and teammates alike are eager to see just how much of a difference this Wallaby star can make in the PREM.