Chiefs Women make first new signing for 2026/27 season

Exeter Chiefs Women have signed Shya Pinnock ahead of the 2026/27 season.

The first new signing of the summer, this move from Trailfinders Women will see Pinnock head back to the south-west.

Equally happy in the second and back row, Pinnock spent five seasons playing for Gloucester Hartpury before transferring to Wasps. When Wasps folded in 2023, she signed for Trailfinders Women.

The 27-year-old used to hold the U13s south west record for 100m and 200m before taking up mixed martial arts. She only began playing rugby at the 18 at Old Richians in Gloucester where she was lured to Hartpury College by Chiefs Women’s former head coach Susie Appleby.

Pinnock said: “I am super excited for a fresh start with Exeter. I’ve always liked their style of play and how they use their forwards, and I’m looking forward to being part of a such a strong pack and successful team.”

Exeter Chiefs Women’s head coach Steve Salvin said: “Shya is a player we have been interested in for several years having attempted to sign her from Wasps a couple of years ago. She is an incredibly physical player with good intellect around the lineout and a high work rate. We look forward to giving Shya a warm Chiefs welcome for the 26/27 season.”