Chiefs star to leave at the end of season

Luke Cowan-Dickie will join French giants Montpellier

Exeter Chiefs hooker Luke Cowan-Dickie has become the second player to leave the Devon side for a French team this season. He is set to join up with current Exeter and England teammate Sam Simmonds, to join the French Top 14 giants Montpellier-Herault, in 2023.

By announcing his departure from the Chiefs, this makes Cowan-Dickie the newest player to leave a premiership club, after the reduced salary cap of £5m continues to take effect.

The 29-year-old has spent over 12 years at Exeter and has played a big part in helping the Chiefs win their first European title and two English Premierships.

"It's gutting to be leaving…I've been at the Chiefs for 12 years and it's all I've known. I spoke a lot with my family about it and it wasn't an easy decision to make in the end.” Said the hooker.

He said that it will feel 'weird' when it comes to saying goodbye to the Exeter Chiefs at the end of the season, up to now Cowan-Dickie has scored 36 tries in 163 appearances.

"Obviously, it's a different competition, a different language - which I'll have to learn - but I think it's time for a change. Hopefully, I've still got plenty of years left in my career, but this is an opportunity for me to go over there and show what I am all about."

Cowan Dickie has insisted his main focus is on the Chiefs and making sure the performances are up to high standards.

"I've still lots to give here," he added. "This is my club and I want to go out on a real high and win some trophies.”

The Cornish-man born in Truro has become an England star, he has also racked up three caps for the British and Irish Lions.

His move won’t happen until after next year’s Rugby World Cup in France. Due to eligibility rules. After the tournament, players abroad will be unable to be picked for international duties. It was definitely a decision he had to think long and hard about.

“It definitely came into my thinking...Playing for England is the pinnacle of your career, so it's tough to leave that behind.

“I still think I have lots more to give and, hopefully, I get more opportunities between now and the move. We've got the Six Nations coming up, then the World Cup, and I want to be involved in both.

"The only way I can do that, however, is by playing well at club level. That's my aim and we will see what happens in the future."

There have been questions circulating Cowan Dickie’s friend and teammate, Jack Nowell. This is because his contract will run out at the end of the season.