Ex-Leicester head coach Bundy joins Exeter Chiefs as forwards and defence coach

Ross Bundy has been appointed as an assistant coach at Exeter Chiefs for the 2026/27 season, the club confirmed, with the former Leicester Tigers head coach tasked with overseeing forwards and defence at Sandy Park.

Bundy spent a single season at Leicester, during which the Tigers failed to win a Premiership Women’s Rugby game and finished bottom of the table. He joins Exeter’s coaching staff alongside backs and attack coach Oli Bishop.

The appointment comes at a period of significant change at Exeter. The club is currently without a head coach following Steve Salvin’s departure to take up a full-time role with Sean Lynn’s Wales setup, while new owners Black Knight Rugby completed their takeover just a week ago. CEO Tony Rowe CBE has stated the new ownership is “committed totally” to women’s rugby.

Bundy said: “I am really excited to join a club like Exeter Chiefs. It’s a club whose values and playing style really suit me. It’s also a club with big goals. I am hoping I can add to what was a great season last year and help the team achieve even more this season.”

Rowe welcomed the addition, saying: “He will not only bring experience as a forwards coach but also the recruitment and leadership nous that comes with being a head coach.”

Exeter are building their squad ahead of next season after finishing in the top four last term — ending a one-year absence from knockout rugby — before falling to Saracens at the semi-final stage. The club have confirmed the signing of Wales international prop Maisie Davies, with Shya Pinnock from Trailfinders Women and Tilly Ryall from Bristol Bears also set to arrive.

However, Exeter have lost several experienced internationals, including Canada trio Emily Tuttosi, Sabrina Poulin and Abby Duguid, as well as former Ireland captain Edel McMahon.