Exeter Chiefs have been dealt a significant blow as captain Jack Yeandle has been ruled out for the remainder of the season due to a foot injury. The 36-year-old hooker, a cornerstone of the Chiefs' pack, sustained the setback during the clash against Northampton two weeks ago and now requires surgery to address the issue.

Director of rugby Rob Baxter is taking a long-term view, emphasizing that this early intervention will set Yeandle up for a stronger return. "By not playing games now, he'll start next season in a better place for the amount of games he's still got left in the tank," Baxter explained. "We're trying to look at the positives and focus on getting him back, raring to go for pre-season."

Yeandle's absence is a tough pill to swallow for a Chiefs side currently sitting fourth in the Premiership table. However, the team has no time to dwell on the loss as they prepare for a crucial European Challenge Cup semi-final against Ulster this Saturday. With the captain sidelined, Exeter will need to dig deep and rally around their remaining leaders as they chase silverware on two fronts.

For fans looking to show their support, this is the perfect moment to gear up in Chiefs colors and back the squad as they battle through the final stretch of the season.