Henry James Harvey Slade, born on March 19, 1993, is an English professional rugby union player who currently represents the Exeter Chiefs in Premiership Rugby and the England national team. While his primary position is at centre, he has also demonstrated his skills at fly-half and full-back.
Slade began his rugby journey at Plymouth College and later pursued a BSc in Sports & Exercise Science at the University of Exeter. He emerged through the ranks of the Chiefs Academy, alongside talented players like Luke Cowan-Dickie, Sam Hill, and Jack Nowell. In 2012, he played a vital role in the England Under-20s side that secured victory in the Junior World Championship against Wales.
Since his first-team debut for the Chiefs in 2012, Slade has been a standout figure in the team's success. Known for his exceptional passing, kicking, and ability to create space effortlessly, he has amassed over 140 appearances for the club. Throughout his career, he has achieved numerous accolades, including winning the LV= Cup and the Aviva Premiership title, as well as being named the RPA's Young Player of the Year in 2015.
Slade's international career has also been noteworthy. He made his debut for the England under-18 team in 2010 and went on to be part of the England under-20 team that clinched back-to-back titles in the U20 Six Nations in 2012 and 2013. He played a pivotal role in the team's victory over Wales in the final of the 2013 IRB Junior World Championship, securing the youth world champions title.
In 2014, Slade made his England 'A' debut against Ireland Wolfhounds, followed by an impressive performance in an uncapped game against the Barbarians at Twickenham, where he scored fifteen points. He was subsequently included in the preliminary training squad for the 2015 Rugby World Cup and earned his first cap for England in a warm-up victory over France, partnering with Sam Burgess in midfield.
Although a broken leg temporarily sidelined Slade, he made a remarkable recovery and returned to help the Chiefs reach their first-ever Premiership final. In 2017, he played a significant role in Exeter's Premiership final victory over Wasps, securing their first-ever Premiership title. Slade continued to shine for both club and country, featuring in the Rugby World Cup twice, contributing to England's Six Nations and Autumn Nations Cup victories.
The 2020 season proved to be extraordinary for Slade as he lifted four trophies, including a second Premiership title and a maiden Champions Cup crown with the Chiefs. His try-scoring performances in both finals further highlighted his exceptional abilities.
With his world-class skills and an impressive career trajectory, Slade's future looks bright both for the Exeter Chiefs and the England national team.
KG(17/06/2023)
Career
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Exeter Chiefs Outside Centre |
2011 - present |
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England Outside Centre |
2015 - present |
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England U20's Fly Half |
2013 - 2014 |
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England Saxons Fly Half |
2014 - 2020 |
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Plymouth College Fly Half |
