Four best friends have been snapped up by the current rugby champions after being scouted during a successful cup run.

Toby Clinch, Louie Sinclair, Sol Moody and Junior Kpoku have all signed contracts at Premiership side Exeter Chiefs to develop their rugby further as part of the club's academy.

All four students attended Finborough School near Stowmarket last year, helping to take the school team to the National U18s Cup Semi-Finals.

This has been part of the Chiefs continued drive to secure some of the brightest young talent around the country.

East Anglian Daily Times: Sol Moody, Louie Sinclair and Junior Kpoku have all signed with Exeter Chiefs. Credit: Finborough SchoolSol Moody, Louie Sinclair and Junior Kpoku have all signed with Exeter Chiefs. Credit: Finborough School (Image: Finborough School)

Sol Moody, former Head Boy at Finborough School and one of those to join the Devon-based club, said: "Growing up, I never thought I would sign a professional rugby contract with my best mates, yet here I am living with them, playing the sport I love.

"It's a privilege to have worn the red and blue jersey for Finborough School, and it's an absolute honour to now be wearing the black and yellow jersey of the Exeter Chiefs.

"We are very excited for this new chapter in our lives."

The boys settled into the group quickly, taking part in pre-season training with the team.

Louie, Sol and Toby were all part of Bury St Edmunds Rugby Club, which saw them through mini and youth sections, whilst Louie also spent time at Hamilton Boy's High School in New Zealand, the proving ground for some All-Blacks players.

East Anglian Daily Times: Toby Clinch playing for Finborough School. Credit: Finborough SchoolToby Clinch playing for Finborough School. Credit: Finborough School (Image: Finborough School)

Head of Rugby at Finborough, Mitch Turner, said: "I am very proud of the boys and their achievements in joining such a great club.

"The boys have worked hard for this opportunity and it is a testament to years of dedication and commitment."

Director of Rugby at Exeter Chiefs, Rob Baxter, said: "I am delighted that Toby, Sol, Louie and Junior have chosen to join our academy.

"All four are already showing the qualities of hard work, team buy in and pride in what they do that will hold them in really good stead going forward."