Ali Hepher: Exeter coach leaves club after 16 years following supension

Long-serving Exeter Chiefs coach Ali Hepher has left the Premiership club by mutual consent.

The 50-year-old had been suspended from his role as backs and attack coach last month in the wake of Exeter’s club-record 79-17 loss at Gloucester.

The former Northampton fly-half had been part of Exeter’s coaching set-up since 2009 when he joined then newly-appointed boss Rob Baxter.

He was promoted to head coach in 2017, but was demoted earlier this year as Chiefs suffered their worst season since promotion to the Premiership in 2010.

Exeter are ninth in England’s top flight having lost 12 of their 16 matches.

Hepher had been due to take on a role transitioning players between the academy and first team this summer.

Director of rugby Baxter has refused to comment on whether former Newcastle boss Dave Walder will take over Hepher’s role – despite being pictured in a club photograph during a training session last week.

Under Hepher’s time at the club Exeter won two Premiership titles and the 2020 European Champions Cup.

His exit comes soon after Rob Hunter – who succeeded him as head coach – also left.

“Ali has contributed immensely to Exeter Rugby Club over a long period of sustained success,” chairman Tony Rowe said in a statement.

“His influence on our coaching environment and playing culture has been considerable and I would like to wish him all the best for the future.”

Baxter added: “Working alongside Ali for so many seasons has been a genuine privilege.

“His insight, energy, and passion for the game have helped drive this club forward in countless ways and I know everyone here will join me in thanking him for all he’s done.”