Kai keen to create more memories

Kai Horstmann has challenged his Exeter Chiefs team-mates to create some more fantastic memories when they go to Leicester Tigers on Sunday (1pm).

Rob Baxter’s men make the trip to Welford Road to contest an LV= Cup semi-final with Richard Cockerill’s side.

Horstmann, 33, started last year’s final which saw the Chiefs claim their first major piece of silverware with a 15-8 success over Northampton Saints at Sandy Park.

The former Worcester Warrior rates that as among the highlights of his career, and he knows victory on Sunday would give Exeter the chance of more memories to cherish.

“Winning silverware is something you take when it comes around and you work very hard for it,” said Horstmann. "Winning the LV= Cup is certainly one of my highlights. They are the moments you look back on pretty fondly and you share those moments which are pretty special.

“It took a fair bit of effort to get there so to win it again this year would be pretty special.

“This match is huge to us as a squad and we take pride in any competition we play in. We try to give a good account of ourselves.

“Whatever the game and whatever the stage of the tournament, we get pretty excited by it and this is a really big occasion and challenge for us.”

Baxter has confirmed that he will look to rotate his squad for Sunday’s semi-final.

Having made relatively few changes to his starting XV during their last four Premiership matches, a number of players on the fringes of the squad – including Horstmann – are expected to be given the nod.

Horstmann hailed the efforts of those who have propelled the Chiefs up to second in the Premiership, but insisted that he would seize any opportunity presented to him with both hands.

“The guys who have played have done well and got us into a great position, but as a player you are there to play rugby – that is what you are there for,” he explained.

“You train every day to get some match action at the weekend. Everyone is fully aware it is a big challenge for us but the guys are really excited by it and we are looking forward to it. We are going to a hotbed environment and I really enjoy that type of occasion – I think most players do.”