Nika Abuladze and Olly Woodburn are back in the Exeter Chiefs starting line-up for Saturday evening’s Gallagher PREM derby against Bristol Bears at Ashton Gate, with kick-off set for 17:30.
The selection change comes after a weekend of European action, with Exeter now turning back to league duties in what should be a very different test. Both teams were away from home during the single weekend of European fixtures before this match, and Rob Baxter is expecting a tough atmosphere in Bristol.
What Baxter is expecting
Baxter said Exeter showed plenty of character in last weekend’s game, but stressed that the response now has to be matched in the Prem. He also pointed to the weather as a major factor, noting that it is unlikely to be warm and dry and that wind and rain could shape the contest.
That matters because Bristol are not just a side that like to play with tempo and score points. Baxter also highlighted their set-piece strength, especially at lineout time, as another reason this will be a difficult away assignment against one of the league’s top four sides.
Return to the XV
For Abuladze, the start carries extra significance. He last featured alongside Jack Yeandle against Glasgow Warriors in January 2024, and he returned to Devon in the summer after two years in France with Montpellier.
Woodburn’s return is also notable after he injured his ankle against Bath Rugby in round two. Exeter’s selection therefore restores two experienced options for a match that arrives at an important point in the season, with the Chiefs looking to build on the character they showed last Sunday against Stade Toulousain.
It is another reminder that selection and conditions can matter just as much as form in derby rugby. Exeter have a chance to back up their European effort with a strong league display, but Baxter made clear the challenge will be a different one entirely.
