In a major move, South African forward Jacques Vermeulen has confirmed that he will be leaving Exeter Chiefs at the end of the season to join Gallagher Premiership rivals Sale Sharks. The 30-year-old powerhouse has agreed to a two-year deal with Alex Sanderson’s side, bringing an end to his six-year stint in Devon.
Vermeulen, who was part of Exeter’s double-winning side in 2020, has been a key player for the Chiefs, helping the team secure both Premiership and European glory. His departure will undoubtedly be felt, but the forward is excited about his new challenge.
“I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining Sale Sharks,” Vermeulen said. “I already have some good friends in the squad, which will make the transition even smoother, and I truly believe this team has the talent and ambition to achieve big things.”
Exeter Chiefs Director of Rugby Rob Baxter has thanked Vermeulen for his contributions to the team’s success. “Jacques is one of the players who has been here in one of our most successful periods as a club,” Baxter said. “He leaves Exeter with our best wishes. He’s got important reasons to stay in the country, with his young family a big source of drive and ambition for him, so we wish him all the best.”
Vermeulen will join former Exeter Chiefs teammates Luke Cowan-Dickie and Tom O’Flaherty at Sale Sharks, and is expected to make a significant impact at his new club.
*KEY DETAILS:*
– Jacques Vermeulen to leave Exeter Chiefs at the end of the season
– Vermeulen joins Sale Sharks on a two-year deal
– The South African forward was part of Exeter’s double-winning side in 2020
– Vermeulen will join former Exeter Chiefs teammates Luke Cowan-Dickie and Tom O’Flaherty at Sale Sharks