Chiefs trio to gain experience with Taunton

A trio of young Chiefs players will be dual-registered with National League Two West side Taunton Titans for the 2026/27 season, providing them a valuable opportunity for senior experience.

Centre Israel Akinrowo, back-rower Alfie Johns and winger Troy Jackson all spent pre-season with the Chiefs squad but will now be available for selection with Taunton throughout the upcoming campaign.

Chiefs’ player development manager Rich Hodges said: “The three senior academy players will link up with Taunton ahead of this weekend, gaining valuable senior game time in national two as part of their ongoing development.

“Troy and Alfie both joined the Chiefs this year while continuing their studies at Exeter College and will get another opportunity to experience senior rugby, having both been involved in last weekend’s friendly against Scarlets Rugby.

“Israel was in camp with Taunton a few weeks ago and looks to have settled in really well, gaining valuable minutes and experience in the centres.

“The partnership with Taunton provides a great opportunity for all three players to continue their progression through exposure within a competitive senior environment.”

Akinrowo was originally recruited to Chiefs in October 2024 in a group of aspiring Exeter players which also included breakthrough player Campbell Ridl and England U20s’ Nick Lilley.

While earlier this year, Johns and Jackson were two of a 10-strong group to sign senior academy deals having shown real promise in the Chiefs player pathway. This newest group were identified by coach Ali Hepher as “individual in their characters…very driven and motivated to improve as players”.

A vast array of Chiefs have benefited from past dual-reg spells, including the likes of Joe Bailey to Cornish Pirates and Louie Gulley to Plymouth Albion.