Cuthbert to join the Ospreys
By Mark Stevens
22/6/21
Alex Cuthbert says lifting the Gallagher Premiership title this weekend will offer him the perfect send-off as he prepares to bring the curtain down on his Exeter Chiefs career.
After three years in Devon, the Wales and British & Irish Lions star is heading back to the Principality next season, joining the Ospreys on a one-year deal.
Brought to Sandy Park in the summer of 2018 after a seven-year stint with the Cardiff Blues, Cuthbert has amassed 31 appearances for the Chiefs, scoring six tries in the process.
His playing time, however, has been dogged by a succession of untimely injuries and meant that he has been forced into a watching brief for much longer than he would ever have anticipated.
When fit, Cuthbert has been a proven force in the Chiefs jersey and in recent weeks he has helped Rob Baxter’s side win through to a sixth successive Premiership final. Now, this Saturday, he is aiming to play his part in helping the Devonians secure back-to-back titles against rivals Harlequins (5:30pm).
“I’m sad to be leaving because I’ve genuinely loved every minute of my time at the Chiefs,” said Cuthbert, who has won 47 Test caps for Wales and one for the British Lions.
“Obviously, I’ve not played as many games as would have wanted, but I’ve played in some big games when it’s really counted. Last season we won the double, which is one of the hardest things to do in rugby, and now I’ve got the opportunity to lift the Premiership, which would be the perfect send off for me and my family.”
A popular figure, both on and off the field, Cuthbert says he will depart the Chiefs not only a better player, but also a better person.
“I came here as a young lad, but I really feel I’ve matured a huge amount,” he added. “I’ve learnt a lot off the coaches, but also the boys as well. Coming in every day is a real pleasure and I’m really going to miss the vibe we have around the changing room.
“That togetherness that exists, it’s special, and every time I go out on the field, I don’t just play for myself, but for all those guys who sit next to me. Every time I pull on that jersey, I literally go out and give everything.”
Having featured in the 2019 Premiership Final defeat to Saracens at Twickenham, Cuthbert feels he has unfinished business in terms of helping the Chiefs try and secure their latest piece of silverware.
“I still feel the hurt of that game,” he added. “I could probably talk you through every minute of the last 20 in that game. That day, that defeat, it really hurt and it will be a big driving force for me going into this weekend’s game. To go back-to-back champions is no mean feat, but it’s something we are all striving for this week.”
Cuthbert is one of three current Chiefs who will be moving to the Liberty Stadium next season, he follows prop Tomas Francis and hooker Elvis Taione in signing for the Ospreys.