EXETER Chiefs captain Rich Baxter has decided to stand down from the role after three seasons.

The homegrown No. 8 said he would keep his reasons for stepping aside to himself. But he remains committed to helping the Chiefs achieve success in the Championship next term.

Baxter was appointed captain on a full-time basis by former coach Pete Drewett in July 2006, having previously stood in on a couple of occasions.

He led the side out in the first game at Sandy Park later that year but has decided to go back to being one of the troops next season.

Baxter told Echo Sport: "I've enjoyed my time as captain over the last few years but I've decided to stand down. I've got my reasons but I'll keep those to myself.

"I'd just like to thank the players that I've played with. They've made it a pleasure to captain the side for three pretty successful years.

"Leading the side out for the first game at Sandy Park was a proud moment, as was being captain for the last game at the County Ground."

Baxter has played more league games for Exeter than anyone else — his tally of 285 since making his debut in October 1997 may never be beaten.

Older brother Rob, now the Chiefs' head coach, was captain when Rich came through from the youth ranks and Rich then played under former skipper Sam Blythe.

The younger Baxter said he would give his all once again next season.

"The most important thing for me was being part of the squad and the team," he said.

"I'm still totally committed to giving my all and doing the best I can for the team."

Rob Baxter, who is set to name a new skipper in the next few days, paid tribute to his younger brother.

He said his win ratio was probably the best of any captain in Exeter's history and had led the side into the professional era.

"On behalf of everyone at the club, I would like to thank Richie for his leadership of the team during the last three years," said Rob Baxter.

"He has captained the team through the move from the County Ground to Sandy Park and in the shift from semi-professionalism to full-time professionalism.

"Richie has achieved probably the best win-loss ratio of any long-term captain and has always been an example of the attributes we are looking for in Exeter players.

"Throughout that time, he has remained one of our top and most consistent performers and his work-rate scores are continually in the top three for each game, showing how he has led from the front at all times.

"I would describe him as one of the players that glues our team together and drives us over the gain line. It is only when you analyse match video that you really see how much work he does."