Rob Baxter, the head coach of the Exeter Chiefs, has issued a stern warning to his international players as they prepare for the upcoming Gallagher Premiership season. With a significant portion of his squad comprising of internationals, Baxter is keenly aware of the challenge they face in catching up with their peers who have already been back for a few weeks. The coach's message is clear: the returning internationals must get their fitness levels up to speed quickly or risk falling behind in the competition.
Baxter attributes the Chiefs' success in the 2025-26 campaign, where they secured at least a point from every Premiership game, to a rigorous pre-season last summer. He believes that this has set a high bar for the returning internationals, who will have to hit the ground running to avoid being left behind.
One player who is expected to return to action before the league opener against Gloucester is skipper Dafydd Jenkins. Jenkins missed the recent Nations Championship due to a shoulder injury but is set to return to the squad around the start of the Premiership season. This development will strengthen the back five of the scrum, creating a highly competitive environment.
Baxter's comments highlight the importance of pre-season training and the challenges faced by international players in keeping up with their peers. The coach's emphasis on the need for the returning internationals to get up to speed quickly is a testament to his commitment to maintaining the team's competitive edge. As the season unfolds, it will be fascinating to see how the returning internationals adapt to the demands of the Premiership and whether they can live up to Baxter's expectations.
In my opinion, Baxter's message serves as a wake-up call for the returning internationals, emphasizing the need for a strong work ethic and dedication to fitness. The coach's insight into the importance of pre-season training is particularly interesting, as it underscores the value of a rigorous preparation period in setting the tone for a successful season. What makes this situation particularly fascinating is the potential impact of the returning internationals on the team's overall performance, as they strive to bridge the gap between themselves and their more experienced counterparts.
