Georgian powerhouse Abuladze to return to Devon

Exeter Chiefs have completed the signing of Georgian powerhouse, and former Chief, Nika Abuladze from the 2026/27 season.

The 30-year-old loosehead prop left Devon for Montpellier in June 2024 after making 16 Chiefs appearances in all competitions.

Abuladze said: “I feel like I’ve accomplished everything I can with Montpellier and so I’m delighted to return to Exeter Chiefs. Devon was a place where I always felt happy and appreciated, which I know I will continue to be when I return.”

The first Georgian player to ever represent the club, Abuladze paved the way for his countryman, tighthead prop Bachuki Tchumbadze, whose talent has been flourishing in the Chiefs pack this season having joined the club last summer.

Tblisi-born Abuladze has 22 caps for his country, including games at the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France so will link up well with the young Tchumbadze. His considerable bulk and explosive power at the set piece is sure to be an intriguing match with that provided by Tchumbadze.

Chiefs’ director of rugby Rob Baxter said: “We’re thrilled to be bringing Nika back to Exeter, we’ve got very fond memories of him from his time here. He was definitely one of the strongest scrummaging looseheads in the Prem in his time pre-injury. He went very well for us, helped us have a very dominant set piece.

“As we keep trying to build on the foundations we’re setting now, around how we want to play and strengthening the squad, Nika is a fantastic addition to that. The scrum and specifically our front row is an area in which we feel we’re strong and one in which we can keep developing.

“We’re glad to have him coming back. He was a very popular squad member in his previous stint, so I’m sure he’ll fit straight back in, working with Ross McMillan and Glen Townson to really help drive our pack of forwards. He’ll hopefully help us in our aim to return to winning trophies in the future.”