Former Chiefs trip back for Sandy Park action with Newcastle visit

Exeter Chiefs will welcome back three of its former players when Newcastle Red Bulls take the longest journey in the Gallagher PREM in six weeks’ time.

Josh Hodge, Will Rigg and Rusi Tuima will all make an early return trip to Sandy Park on Sunday, October 11 (KO 15:00) as the Prem gets going for the 2026/27 season.

Full-back Hodge made 91 appearances for the club and scored 31 tries before leaving midway through last season to return to his north-east roots.

Championship product centre Rigg will extend his experience in the Prem with Newcastle while this fixture will see Tuima will be back on West Country soil having grown up in Devon.

Tickets for Exeter Chiefs v Newcastle Red Bulls went on sale at noon today. It will be the first time these sides will have met following extensive investment in both clubs.

It will be the third round of the Prem season with the Sunday date giving players and fans of local clubs the chance to watch topflight action without disturbing their usual rugby routine.

Exeter Rugby Club’s CEO Tony Rowe said: “The South West is full of rugby clubs with busy fixture lists of their own. Sunday games at Sandy Park give their players and supporters the chance to come and watch Chiefs too. Weekends in our part of the world are often shaped by the rugby calendar, and a Sunday fixture gives supporters chance to give over their entire weekend to our favourite sport!”

Supporters can still enjoy the discount and convenience of a season membership and catch every home game of 2026/27, starting at £315 for adults in the terraces and £120 for juniors in the Inch’s Stand.

Clubs and schools can also book matchday experiences for their young players which include a training session, a tour of the playing facilities, a ticket of the game, being part of the guard of honour before the game and a lap of the pitch at half-time.

Hospitality is available to book for all Gallagher PREM and Investec Challenge Cup games via the club’s website or by emailing Chiefs corporate account manager Naomi Moran here.