Welsh rugby player Joe Hawkins has confirmed that he will be moving to Exeter Chiefs in England for the upcoming season. The 20-year-old centre has signed a long-term deal and will join fellow Welsh players Christ Tshiunza and Dafydd Jenkins at Sandy Park.
Hawkin made his Test debut for Wales in November and played in the Six Nations championship this year, including a match against England. However, because he only has five caps, he does not meet the eligibility criteria of 25 caps for Welsh players playing outside the country. This means he risks missing out on the World Cup later this year.
Exeter Chiefs’ director of rugby, Rob Baxter, and head coach, Ali Hepher, are looking to rebuild the team as several established players set to leave the club next month. Hawkins seen as a player with considerable potential and can also play as a fly-half.
He said he was excited about the move and was looking forward to the new challenge. “It’s something a bit different, especially moving away from my home region who I will always be thankful to. That said, it does feel like a home away from home, especially with all the Welsh boys that are down there already,” he said.
Baxter said Hawkins was someone they had been watching for some time and was a great addition to the squad. “We are putting together a group of players who, I believe, can really take this club forward over the next few years and really challenge for honours,” he said.
