Rebel League Could Harm English Club Rugby, Warns Baxter
Rob Baxter has cautioned that English club rugby could face serious consequences if the proposed R360 breakaway league proceeds. Exeter Chiefs recently secured the signing of top Australian center Len Ikitau, and their director of rugby believes the Premiership would suffer if such high-quality players were drawn elsewhere.
The R360 project has encountered setbacks, with leading unions warning that participants would sacrifice their international careers. Baxter, however, argues that rugby should prioritize strengthening its current competitions.
“We don’t want the best players leaving our league or the teams we compete against,” said Baxter, whose unbeaten Chiefs side face Bristol this weekend. “We aim to be an appealing destination for players like Ikitau and Tom Hooper, ensuring they see this as a top-level competition.”
“We already have a strong league here,” he added. “Our focus should be on refining what we have. Adding another competition doesn’t generate more interest—improving the game does. Introducing more tournaments might seem like a quick solution, but unless the sport remains exciting, fans won’t engage.”
Ikitau, 27, who joined Exeter this season, has expressed his desire to play for Australia in the 2027 World Cup. Baxter acknowledges that lucrative R360 offers could tempt veteran players. “It might appeal to those past their international careers. But I’m not convinced that alone makes a compelling competition.”
“There’s talk about benefits like reduced fixtures and player welfare, but the logistical challenges are being overlooked. No permanent training facilities, uncertain medical arrangements—many details remain unclear.”
Baxter also believes the Premiership can improve after a turbulent phase dominated by concerns over head injuries. “We overreacted and nearly stripped the game of its physical nature. But concussion rates likely haven’t changed much. Penalizing accidental contact isn’t the answer—people want to see intensity and competition.”
“Fans enjoy tries, but matches need balance—contest, physicality, skill, and pace. A one-dimensional approach doesn’t work. Without hard-fought battles and endurance, you don’t create opportunities for anyone.”
Read next
Raducanu's Journey from Rome to French Open Fitness Challenge Raises Future Questions
Emma Raducanu was among the first to pass through the imposing gates of the Foro Italico this year. She arrived in Rome ahead of schedule, keen to assess her fitness and readiness for elite competition during a series of practice sessions on the tournament’s heavy red‑clay courts. As
Winter Paralympics athletes furious over schedule as massive thaw disrupts events
In Cortina d’Ampezzo, the thaw has arrived. Daytime temperatures are climbing into the double‑digit Celsius range, causing snow to melt from the slopes and the “torrenti” of runoff to begin flowing again.
Usually a period when snowfall can be at its peak, the region has seen none since
France to don pale blue kit in England clash amid looming kit dispute
England’s Six Nations showdown in Paris on Saturday might turn into a comedy of errors as France prepare to sport a commemorative pale‑blue jersey that could conflict with the white uniform worn by Steve Borthwick’s team.
Fabian Galthié’s side has announced it will wear the anniversary