South Sydney Rabbitohs young gun Charlie Poynton has joined rugby union club the Exeter Chiefs for the 2026-27 season.
The rising rugby league talent played both codes growing up, and despite impressing during his time working his way through the Rabbitohs pathways, will now take his talents to the 15-man game in England.
A backline utility in the NRL, Poynton has developed an impressive highligh reel through his time in rugby league despite being just 19 years of age, with the ability to kick, run and burn opposition defensive lines.
Poynton represented Australia in rugby union at under 16 and under 18 level, and will now head back to the 15-man game for another stint where he could one day represent either Australia, New Zealand, where he was born, or England.
“Signing with Exeter Chiefs was an opportunity that really excited me. The club has a great reputation and a strong vision for the future, and after speaking with the coaches and everyone involved, I felt it was the right environment for me to continue developing both as a player and as a person," Poynton said of his signing with Exeter.
“I'm looking to make the most of the opportunity, keep improving every day and establish myself as a player at this level. I want to contribute to the team wherever I can, help the Chiefs achieve their goals and hopefully be part of a successful period for the club. I'm really excited to get started and see what we can get done this year.”
Poynton could have progressed into the NSW Cup next year, but will instead push his way back into rugby union, with the former Waratahs academy product tipped for big things had he stayed in the 13-man game.
The expectations of him in the 15-man game are equally as high, and Exeter director of rugby Rob Baxter said the Manly Marlins junior would slot in either at fullback or on the wing, suggesting his time in rugby league will be a help as he transitions back across codes.
“Charlie is an exciting, young English-qualified player who has been playing for Manly Marlins over in Australia," Baxter said.
“He's had a bit of time playing rugby league as well, so we see him as a very multi-talented player who can slot in at 15 or wing. Those are slots where we haven't got too many options, as with Paul Brown-Bampoe injured and Immanuel Feyi-Waboso not available to play until later following the internationals break.
“We felt it was important to try to strengthen that position while we could. When Charlie became available, we looked at the qualities he could bring and the opportunities this could create for him. We felt it was a great fit.”
