Exeter set to sign hulking, young NZ tighthead

Rob Baxter’s global search for a tighthead has seemingly come to an end with the result that 6'4, 128kg Josh Iosefa-Scott is set to call Sandy Park his new home.

Iosefa-Scott currently plies his trade with the Highlanders in Super Rugby but is expected to make the journey to the UK ahead of the 2021-22 season.

Baxter’s search was prompted by the announcement that current tighthead Tomas Francis would be leaving Exeter to join up with Ospreys in the Pro 14. Francis’ are big shoes to fill for Iosefa-Scott – the former having racked up a total of 57 international caps for Wales.

While a significantly imposing physical presence, Iosefa-Scott is still a youngster at 24 years-old and Baxter and co. are looking forward to imparting their guidance on him going forward.