Listen to Damian Derrick and Tom Foley Calling Exeter Chiefs v Bristol Bears on BBC Radio Bristol

Match date: 21 February 2026

Listen to Damian Derrick and Tom Foley Calling Exeter Chiefs v Bristol Bears on BBC Radio Bristol

Rugby fans across the UK, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand can tune into BBC Radio Bristol (FM), BBC Radio Somerset (DAB), the BBC Sounds app or BBC Sport Online (audio) for live coverage of Exeter Chiefs v Bristol Bears in the English Premiership Rugby Cup on Saturday 21 February 2026 at 16:30 UK time. This crucial Pool A clash at Sandy Park promises high-octane action, with Damian Derrick on main commentary duties and Tom Foley as co-commentator, delivering expert insights from the heart of Devon.

BBC Radio Bristol has long been a go-to for West Country rugby enthusiasts, offering immersive ball-by-ball coverage that captures every tackle, try and tactical nuance. Whether you're in Bristol, Exeter or tuning in from afar via the BBC Sounds app, this broadcast ensures you won't miss a moment of the Chiefs hosting the Bears in what could shape their Premiership Rugby Cup standings. Recent encounters have been thrilling, with Exeter Chiefs edging a 46-35 victory over Bristol Bears at Ashton Gate earlier in the 2025/26 campaign, highlighted by Campbell Ridler's hat-trick[6].

Leading the mic is Damian Derrick, a seasoned BBC Radio Bristol commentator whose career spans decades covering Bristol Bears and regional rugby. Known for his passionate yet precise calls, Derrick has narrated countless Premiership battles, bringing the drama alive for listeners from Bath to beyond. Joining him is Tom Foley, a former England international with 14 caps and a storied club career at Gloucester Rugby, Worcester Warriors and abroad. Foley transitioned seamlessly into coaching and punditry, serving as forwards coach for England during their 2021 Six Nations campaign and now imparting wisdom on air with his deep understanding of the forward pack's dark arts.

The Exeter Chiefs, sitting fourth in the Gallagher Premiership with 35 points from 10 games[2], boast a formidable home record at Sandy Park. Despite a mixed bag in the Premiership Rugby Cup Pool A – currently fifth with 4 points[3] – they stunned the Bears recently, showcasing their potent attack led by try-scorers like those in their February triumph. Bristol Bears, third in the Premiership on 37 points[2] and fourth in Pool A with 5 points[3], arrive brimming with confidence after a hard-fought season. Their attacking flair, evident in recent wins, makes this a mouthwatering rematch.

For fans Down Under, the 16:30 UK kick-off aligns with early Sunday morning, perfect for bleary-eyed viewing on digital platforms. Irish supporters, with strong ties to both clubs via players like Exeter's Irish contingent, will relish Foley's expert analysis. This match could be pivotal; a Chiefs win bolsters their cup progression, while Bears need points to climb the pool.

Don't forget, Tom Foley's playing days included key roles in Gloucester's European campaigns – delve deeper into his career via his Wikipedia profile. Stay tuned to BBC airwaves for what promises to be a fiercely contested West Country derby in the Premiership Rugby Cup.

With both sides vying for semi-final spots – winners advancing to the final at the higher-ranked finalist's ground[3] – expect tension, talent and perhaps some Bristol-Exeter rivalry fireworks. Grab your headphones and let Derrick and Foley guide you through it all.

Article generated: 21 February 2026, 16:16 GMT