Exeter Chiefs director of rugby Rob Baxter has dismissed suggestions that Joseph Dweba is struggling to settle in England.
The former Springbok hooker, who joined the Premiership club from the Stormers, has scored five tries in 15 appearances this season but has not featured since the Premiership Cup final defeat to the Leicester Tigers two weeks ago.
His recent absence – including being left out against the Sale Sharks –has fuelled speculation, but Baxter was quick to shut it down.
“I think he misses his family without a doubt. But the plan is that they’ll be over here shortly now. I think they’re coming over this summer. So, there’s absolutely no reason for him not to be settled in more than he is now,” Baxter explained to RugbyPass.
Baxter acknowledged the challenges Dweba has faced off the field, but praised his professionalism.
“I think he’s fitted in really well. It’s clearly not easy. We gave him some additional time, obviously, to make it worth travelling back to South Africa, spending time with his family.
“He got held up, not being able to fly back through the Middle East, because of all the bits and pieces that happened. But, you know, those issues will happen every now and again, but I think Joseph’s handled it really well.
“He’s been very professional about things and how he has to get on with stuff. So, no, he’s dealing with it as best he can. I can only see things improving in that realm, not getting worse.”
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Importantly, Baxter believes Dweba remains a key figure in the Chiefs’ progress this season and expects him back in the mix soon.
“I think he’s been one of the factors in improving large parts of how we played over the season. I think without doubt, I think Joe knows he was a bit off the pace in the Premiership Cup final.
“But he’s back on it now, he’s working hard, doing lots of extras. He’s going to get sharp again, and he’ll be back in the side relatively quickly.”
Photo: David Rogers/Getty Images
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