Oliver Andrew Chessum, born on September 6, 2000, is an English rugby union player who currently plays for Leicester Tigers in Premiership Rugby. Chessum primarily plays as a lock but is also adept in the back row.
He made his debut for the England national team during the 2022 Six Nations against Italy and has since earned nine caps for his country. Notably, Chessum was a key part of the Leicester Tigers' Premiership Rugby title-winning campaign in 2022, starting in the final against Saracens.
Chessum's rugby journey began at Carre's Grammar School in Sleaford when he was 13 years old. He then went on to play club rugby for Sleaford, Newark, and Kesteven.
As a teenager, Chessum was attached to Leicester's academy but didn't join the main senior academy at the age of 16. Instead, he honed his skills by playing for his club and representing the Notts, Lincs, and Derby Rugby Union youth teams. During this time, Chessum showcased his talent and earned selection for England Counties at the Under-18 level.
After gaining experience with Nottingham, where he made 11 appearances, Chessum joined Leicester Tigers in the summer of 2020. He made his debut for Leicester against Gloucester at Kingsholm on August 30, 2020.
Chessum's performances caught the attention of fans and pundits, leading to him being named the Leicester Mercury's man of the match in a Premiership Rugby Cup win against Wasps on November 20, 2021.
Chessum's standout form in the 2021-22 season earned him a place in the England squad for the 2022 Six Nations Championship. England coach Eddie Jones likened Chessum to Courtney Lawes, praising his lineout skills and ball-carrying abilities.
On February 13, 2022, Chessum made his England debut as a replacement in a commanding 33-0 victory over Italy in Rome.
Having returned to Welford Road from Nottingham, Chessum continues to make significant contributions to Leicester Tigers and has established himself as a promising talent in English rugby.
Chessum with 9 caps already to his name, has been chosen for the 2023 Rugby world cup squad for England.
KT(07/08/2023)
Career
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Leicester Tigers No 4 Lock |
2020 - present |
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England No 4 Lock |
2022 - present |
