ArchieMcArthur

Exeter Chiefs signed former England U20s prop Archie McArthur from Gloucester Rugby for the 2026/27 season.

The 23-year-old made 20 appearances for the cherry and whites since joining them from Wasps at the outset of the 2022/23 season. The young prop’s time with the Gallagher PREM rivals also included being dual-registered with Elior Champ Rugby side Hartpury, for whom he made more than 25 appearances and scored two tries.

Born in Reading, McArthur studied at the City of Oxford College where he joined the Wasps academy pathway through their partnership with the college. While he only made three senior appearances for the former top-flight club, it was there that England age-grades recognised his burgeoning talents.

Originally representing England U18s, in 2023 McArthur was selected alongside Chiefs players Greg Fisilau and Joe Bailey to pull on the England U20s shirt at that year’s World Rugby U20 Championship competition in South Africa.

McArthur links back up with Fisilau and Bailey in Chiefs colours this season as he adds depth to the front-row and looks to continue developing his game under the tutelage of forwards coaches Ross McMillan and Glen Townson.