Exeter confirm the exit of South African back-rower Aidon Davis

Exeter have confirmed that South African back-rower Aidon Davis will quit the Chiefs at the end of the season for a switch back home. It was 2022 when the soon-to-be 30-year-old agreed to move to the Gallagher Premiership from the Currie Cup Cheetahs.

That is a journey Davis will now take in reverse when the 2023/24 campaign is over in Devon as he has taken up an offer to rejoin Frans Steyn’s Cheetahs in Bloemfontein.

It’s a switch that mirrors last year’s decision by Davis’ fellow South African back-rower Jannes Kirsten to leave the Chiefs for a return to the Bulls.

A statement read: “Exeter Chiefs back row Aidon Davis has agreed a move to Toyota Cheetahs for the 2024/25 season. The South African forward will re-join the Bloemfontein side whom he originally signed for Chiefs ahead of the 2022/23 season. In two seasons in Devon, Davis accumulated 25 appearances and four tries.

“Davis has experienced some great victories in a Chiefs shirt, most notably playing in the Premiership Cup final win over London Irish just last season.

"Debuting against Bath Rugby in that same competition, Davis went on to feature in Chiefs’ Gallagher Premiership and Investec Champions Cup campaigns as well. Chiefs will always evoke fond memories for Davis though he looks forward to his next challenge.

“I had watched the Chiefs for quite a while before I signed for them, and I have loved my taste of playing rugby in England,” said Davis.

“I have challenged myself in some of the top competitions in the world – the Gallagher Premiership and the Champions Cup – which has been a fantastic experience.

“I have made some great friends amongst my Chiefs teammates and their support recently has been invaluable. It’s been great fun to play for Exeter but I’m now really looking forward to heading home to South Africa and getting stuck back in with the Cheetahs.”

A Cheetahs statement added: “Free State Rugby is thrilled to announce the homecoming of Aidon Davis, who will rejoin in July 2024. Departing the squad in June 2022, Davis ventured to the Exeter Chiefs, where he showcased his prowess in 25 matches in Premiership Rugby, England's premier rugby division.

“Davis donned the Toyota jersey against Western Province in August 2018 and went on to impress in more than 50 appearances for the team. As anticipation builds, the Cheetahs are gearing up for the forthcoming Currie Cup season, slated to commence on the first weekend of July.”

Cheetahs boss Steyn said: "Aidon is a man of integrity, and we couldn't be happier to welcome him back. His tireless work ethic and positive demeanour are assets to the team, and his wealth of experience will undoubtedly bolster our efforts."