The Chiefs have pulled off a major coup, securing Australian loose forward Tom Hooper's services until 2028 – but with a tantalising twist. Hooper's decision to extend his contract at Sandy Park is not just about loyalty or love for the Devon club; it's a calculated move that lets him play both sides of the rugby world. And what a masterstroke it could prove, with a potential move to the Queensland Reds in 2029 set to be a game-changer for Australian rugby.
It's been a baptism by fire for Hooper since his arrival from the ACT Brumbies last summer, but he's adapted like a dream. The 25-year-old has been an absolute revelation in the Premiership, helping Exeter finish third in the league table and reach the final at Twickenham – where they ultimately fell short. And let's not forget his exploits in the European Challenge Cup, where Ulster proved too strong in the semis.
So what's driving Hooper to commit to another season with the Chiefs? Sources close to the player suggest it's about more than just the club's top-class facilities and talented squad – although they're certainly a draw. It's about the opportunities, the challenges, and the chance to hone his skills in one of the world's most competitive leagues. Hooper had hinted as much back in March, leaving no doubt that he was willing to stay put if the right deal came along.
Now, it seems, the Chiefs have delivered just that – with a sweetener for Australian rugby, too. From 2029 onwards, Hooper will join the Queensland Reds, a move that's being hailed as a 'real coup' by Rugby Australia's director of high performance, Peter Horne. And what does this mean for Hooper's international prospects? Well, it looks like he's got his sights set firmly on selection for the Wallabies – and with 23 caps under his belt since making his debut against South Africa in 2023, you can bet he'll be pushing hard for a starting spot.
Unlike some of his Australian contemporaries, Hooper's decision to stay put won't be about short-term gain or securing a place at the next World Cup. It's about long-term stability and a commitment to domestic rugby in Australia – and that's music to the ears of Wallabies boss Eddie Jones.
This deal is a win-win all round, then: for Hooper, the Chiefs, Australian rugby, and the sport as a whole. And who knows? By 2029, we might just be witnessing the dawn of a new era in international rugby – with Tom Hooper at the forefront of it all.