Exeter Chiefs winger Campbell Ridl has been handed a two-match suspension following his red card for a dangerous aerial challenge on Bath’s Henry Arundell during Saturday’s Premiership clash at The Recreation Ground.

The 20-year-old Ridl misjudged his jump for a high ball, colliding mid-air with Arundell and causing the Bath winger to land on his head. Initially shown a yellow card by referee Luke Pearce, the decision was upgraded to a red card after a video review.

Disciplinary Outcome

An RFU disciplinary hearing conducted on paper by sole judicial officer Charles Cuthbert confirmed Ridl’s acceptance of the foul play charge, resulting in a two-match ban.

Ridl will miss:

• Exeter’s third European Challenge Cup Pool Three game at Stade Français in Paris
• Cardiff’s visit to Sandy Park on 18 January

Rob Baxter on Ridl’s Mistimed Challenge

Exeter director of rugby Rob Baxter defended Ridl’s intentions, calling the incident a learning experience for the young winger:

“Catching a high ball is difficult enough, and having to judge the opposition’s jump makes it doubly hard. He just took off too late, probably expecting to meet the ball at the same time as the opposition. Sometimes you have to go through it to learn it, and that’s probably what Campbell needed.”

Ridl’s Promising Career

Despite this early setback, Ridl has made an impressive start to his first-team career at Exeter. After breaking his hand in pre-season, the England Under-20 international scored on his Prem Rugby Cup debut against Bristol in November. He followed this with strong performances in European and Premiership fixtures, including a try in Exeter’s victory over Leicester just after Christmas.

Baxter praised Ridl’s rugby background and professionalism:

“He’s got a very good rugby background in South Africa and has been part of high-level school and first-team structures. Over the last six months, he’s really embraced being a professional sportsman, which has propelled him into the first team. Being in an academy isn’t what makes a good first-team player—it’s how you use the opportunities. Campbell has clearly done that.”

Learning Experience for Young Players

The incident is being framed as an important development step for Ridl, highlighting the challenges young players face in transitioning to professional rugby. With his talent and work ethic, Exeter Chiefs are optimistic he will continue to grow and contribute once eligible to return.