As the rugby season unfolds, Exeter Chiefs are keenly entering discussions with Wallabies standout Tom Hooper about extending his tenure at Sandy Park. Director of Rugby, Rob Baxter, expressed optimism about retaining Hooper beyond his initial two-year contract. Arriving at the onset of the season with Test teammate Len Ikitau, Hooper has swiftly cemented himself as a pivotal figure in the squad. To date, he has featured in 12 matches, all as a starter, and clinched Man of the Match honors in consecutive games.
The buzz around Hooper's future has been palpable since his arrival, especially following his resurgence in the Wallabies squad last July. Recently, Hooper himself propelled the conversation about his future with the Chiefs. "I’m loving my rugby here," he shared with BBC Sport. He elaborated on his reasons for joining Exeter, citing a need for new challenges after reaching a plateau in Australia. "But if I’m over here and I still feel like I’m being challenged as an athlete and as a person and I’m still growing in those areas, then this is the best place for me."
"So if I see that this environment is indicative of that then I’ll definitely be staying in Devon because that’s what’s best for me."
Baxter, echoing Hooper's sentiments, revealed the club's eagerness to extend his stay. "The conversation I had with Tom was 'I’d love you to stay more than the two years', he said 'let’s look into it', and that’s what we’re doing," Baxter disclosed. Although the discussions are still in the preliminary stages, Baxter is impressed not only with Hooper's on-field prowess but also with his character and the vibrancy he adds to the team environment. "He’s made an impression on me, more than just playing-wise with the character he is around the place and the energy he brings; and he’s obviously a very good player," Baxter noted. This sentiment is crucial, especially as Australian rugby continues to select players based overseas, which simplifies decision-making for expatriates like Hooper. Baxter concluded, "Hopefully, we can make things work for a longer stay. If now is not the right time and we have to talk about it in a year’s time then we’ll do that, but I don’t see a point in us waiting to get on with things." This proactive approach by Baxter underscores a mutual desire to secure Hooper's future at Exeter, reflecting the club's commitment to nurturing top-tier talent and maintaining a competitive edge. As the negotiations progress, fans and teammates alike will undoubtedly watch keenly, hopeful for more standout performances from the Australian back-rower.