Baxter backs Feyi-Waboso to become England force at 2027 Rugby World Cup if he stays fit

Exeter Chiefs head coach Rob Baxter has identified Immanuel Feyi-Waboso as a potential star of the 2027 Rugby World Cup, saying the England winger has the pace and ability to become “quite a force” in Australia if he can finally put together an uninterrupted run of games.

Feyi-Waboso scored 17 tries in 27 appearances for club and country last season, but his progress has repeatedly been derailed by shoulder, hamstring, and facial injuries, as well as suspensions. Baxter believes a clean bill of health this campaign would unlock a different level from the 22-year-old.

“I think just a good, consistent season would do him the world of good,” Baxter said. “That’s what he really needs. He needs to play, and the more he plays, the better he gets. That gives him real match fitness and sharpness.”

The Exeter head coach pointed to Feyi-Waboso’s recent performance against Cardiff as evidence of what he can produce when fit, highlighting his instinctive ability to create moments and his exceptional pace. “He certainly improves with game time,” Baxter added. “If he can really put a run of games together, he could be quite a force come World Cup time. He is an exceptional player.”

Baxter also stressed that Feyi-Waboso has not been idle during his injury absences, crediting the winger’s dedication in the physio room and with the strength and conditioning staff. “People are surprised how much work people do when they’re injured, and Manny is no exception. He’s always worked exceptionally hard with the physios and S&C in those injury periods. All of those things will be making Manny more robust, and hopefully that’s what you’ll start to see over the course of the season.”

With England’s autumn internationals on the horizon and the World Cup less than two years away, Baxter suggested the timing could not be better for Feyi-Waboso to announce himself on the biggest stage. “If he can put a good run together, it’ll be quite exciting what England might see from him both in the autumn and in the World Cup later in the year.”