England Must Consider Exeter’s Fisilau, Says Walder
Exeter Chiefs recently faced a challenging situation with Len Ikitau sidelined until March due to a shoulder injury. In light of this, the Chiefs turned to Will Rigg, who made his first league start of the season at inside centre. The 25-year-old player impressed both in defence and by making significant attacking contributions during Exeter’s victory over the Tigers.
Rigg Steps Up for Exeter Chiefs
With Tamati Tua also out for the season due to an Achilles injury, Rigg demonstrated his potential to secure the number 12 position. Director of Rugby, Walder, praised Rigg’s performance, highlighting key aspects such as:
- Defensive capabilities
- Dangerous attacking runs
- Overall work rate and commitment
Walder’s Confidence in Rigg
Walder acknowledged Ikitau’s status as one of the top centres globally, noting the impact of his absence. He emphasized the need for Rigg to bring out his best self, saying:
“There’s a lot of noise around Len not being involved, but I spoke to Riggy beforehand and I said it’s important that Will Rigg turns up as the best version of Will Rigg.”
Walder continued to commend Rigg’s physicality and outstanding performance, stating, “I thought his work rate was brilliant and I think he stepped up to the plate.”
Looking Forward
Several players in the squad have been diligently preparing throughout the preseason but have not had ample opportunities on the field. The team, however, has thrived collectively, maintaining strong performance levels. When chances arise, it is crucial for players like Rigg to seize them, proving their capabilities as he has done so far.
Overall, Will Rigg’s impressive showing in Exeter’s recent match highlights the depth of talent within the team. As the Chiefs navigate the challenges of injuries, they continue to rely on their squad’s resilience and readiness to perform at higher levels. The way Rigg has stepped into the spotlight paves the way for his potential future contributions as part of the Chiefs’ strong lineup.
