Will Rigg Steps Up as Exeter Chiefs Navigate Key Injury Setbacks
Exeter Chiefs have found an unexpected spark in Will Rigg following season-ending injuries too key players Len Ikitau and Tamati Tua, with the 25-year-old impressing in his first league start of the season. The Chiefs secured a victory over Tigers, showcasing the depth of their squad amidst significant challenges.
Exeter’s plans were disrupted by a shoulder injury to marquee summer signing Len Ikitau, sidelining the world-class center until March. Adding to the team’s woes, Tamati Tua will miss the remainder of the season due to an Achilles injury. This created an possibility for Rigg, a former Coventry back, to prove his worth at inside center.
Rigg seized the moment, delivering a standout performance in both defense and attack. “Riggy came in and did a really good job,” a senior team official stated. “His physicality and his carry were outstanding, and his work rate was brilliant. he really stepped up to the plate.”
The team emphasized the importance of Rigg embracing his full potential. “I spoke to Riggy beforehand and I said ‘it’s significant that Will Rigg turns up as the best version of Will rigg’, and I thought he did that,” the official continued.
The injuries to Ikitau and Tua, both highly regarded players – with one source suggesting Ikitau is “probably in the top four or five centers in the world” – undoubtedly present a setback for the Chiefs. However, the situation has highlighted the strength and resilience within the squad.
“There are a lot of boys in the squad who’ve been working hard through pre-season who haven’t had the opportunities that maybe they would have wanted,” the official explained. “But, as an inevitable result, we’ve been doing well as a group and when the opportunity comes, it’s critically important that they take it, and I thought Will was outstanding.”
Rigg’s performance serves as a testament to the team’s depth and the ability of players to rise to the occasion when called upon, demonstrating a positive outlook for the Chiefs as they navigate a challenging period.
Why did this happen? Exeter Chiefs faced a significant challenge with season-ending injuries to key players Len Ikitau (shoulder) and Tamati Tua (Achilles). These injuries created an opportunity for Will Rigg to step into a starting role.
Who was involved? The key players involved are Will Rigg, Len ikitau, Tamati Tua, and Exeter Chiefs team officials. The opposing team was the Tigers.
What happened? Will Rigg, a former Coventry back, made his first league start of the season for Exeter Chiefs and delivered a standout performance in both defense and attack, helping the team secure a victory over the Tigers. The Chiefs were dealing with the loss of two important players, Ikitau and Tua, due to injury.
How did it end? The Chiefs won their match against the Tigers, demonstrating their squad depth and Rigg’s ability to perform under pressure. While Ikitau and Tua are sidelined for extended periods, Rigg’s performance provides a positive outlook for the team as they navigate these challenges. the team is relying on its depth to overcome the injuries and maintain a competitive edge.
