Caulfield shortlisted for award

By Mark Stevens
7/2/19

Exeter Chiefs forward Josh Caulfield has today been named as one of two wildcard selections for the Breakthrough Player award in this season's Premiership Rugby Cup.

The 21-year-old will be hoping to follow in the footsteps of club-mates Jack Nowell and Ollie Devoto in scooping the award, which recognises players under the age of 23 who have stood out in the tournament.

Using Opta Rugby match statistics, a forward and back from each round has already been added to the shortlist, with Caulfield and Saracens back Matt Gallagher completing the ten-strong list due to their outstanding overall competition statistics.

Fans will get to vote for the winner from Monday, February 11, with the player at the top of the poll being announced prior to the Premiership Rugby Cup Final, with the lucky recipient also receiving a Promaster Tough watch courtesy of Premiership Rugby partner Citizen, while Gilbert, Official Ball and Rugby Clothing Partner of Premiership Rugby, will supply £1,000 worth of kit to a grassroots club of the winner’s choice.

Although the Chiefs narrowly missed out on qualification into the semi-finals on points difference, Caulfield has featured in all four pool games and turned in some impressive on-field performances.

Caulfield, who is dual-registered with Championship side Cornish Pirates this season, showed his versatility as he featured in both the second and back row. He made 64 tackles - more than any other player – during his 285 minutes on the pitch, while only three forwards could better his tally of 41 carries.