Rob Baxter hailed Henry Slade as the catalyst behind Exeter Chiefs’ dramatic semi‑final comeback against Bath. The 33‑year‑old England centre was sin‑binned early for a deliberate knock‑on but returned to steer a 27-26 overturn of a 26‑10 deficit. His leadership convinced the squad they could still win in front of a roaring Sandy Park crowd.

Baxter praised Slade’s vocal presence, saying the veteran “talks really” and reminds teammates of past triumphs. Exeter’s recent history includes two league titles (2017, 2020) and a European Champions Cup win, but the departure of stars such as Jack Nowell and Luke Cowan‑Dickie left a thin roster that struggled to finish above ninth last season, and a loyal fanbase that still believes in silverware.

With the final set for next Saturday against table‑topping Northampton Saints, Baxter hopes departing players like Scott Sio and Christ Tshiunza will taste a “decent Exeter season” before leaving. The Chiefs become the first third‑placed side to reach the Premiership final, a milestone that could reshape expectations for clubs rebuilding after pandemic‑driven cutbacks as they aim to cement a legacy beyond the pandemic.