Exeter Chiefs have agreed a deal to send hooker Iestyn Harris out on loan to closely linked RFU Championship side Cornish Pirates.
The former Wales U20s forward has linked up with the Pirates with immediate effect to cover a shortage of hookers at the club due to recent injuries, with Morgan Nelson sidelined with a knee injury and Rhys Williams out having failed an HIA after taking a knock in last weekend's 26-17 home defeat to Championship league leaders Ealing Trailfinders.
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Harris, 25, joined Chiefs in April 2022 from Welsh United Rugby Championship side, Cardiff Rugby but has had few opportunities to shine in the first team, making just three appearances to date. Exeter director of rugby Rob Baxter signed off the loan in a bid to give Harris a taste of competitive rugby.
Discussing the loan move, Cornish Pirates joint head coach Alan Paver said: “Obviously, with the injuries that we have had from the last game it has been important that we bring someone in to fill that space and, thanks to the support of Exeter Chiefs, Iestyn is that man.
“He has been earmarked as a talented player who has just come back from injury, so we are looking forward to seeing him down at the Mennaye and integrating him in accordingly.”
Cornish Pirates travel to Hartpury on Saturday in the Championship.
