Rugby

Exeter's Capstick set to miss much of season

October 7, 2026

Exeter Chiefs forward Richard Capstick faces an extended recovery after a recurring shoulder injury derailed his season, with the 26-year-old potentially sidelined for much of the campaign. The versatile player, who has featured in both the back row and second row, missed the entirety of last season due to a knee issue and has been out of action since February, undergoing surgery earlier this year.

Despite his setbacks—including a failed operation last year—Capstick remains a key figure for Exeter, having started their 2021 Premiership final loss to Harlequins at Twickenham and earned an England 'A' squad call-up during the 2024-25 season. His injury has forced the club to seek reinforcement, with Welsh forward Carwyn Tuipulotu signed under injury dispensation to bolster the back five.

Capstick, a former England Under-20 player, has made 97 appearances for Exeter since his debut in late 2018, though his career has been marked by frequent setbacks, with only one injury-free season in the last four years.