Chessum reflects on Bristol win and Tigers' playoff push

Leicester Tigers forward Ollie Chessum offered a grounded and reflective perspective following his side’s 36-19 win over Bristol Bears, a result that keeps their Gallagher Premiership playoff hopes alive.

Making his first league appearance since October, Chessum played the full 80 minutes and helped anchor a powerful Tigers performance.

While acknowledging the personal milestone of returning from injury, Chessum was more focused on the team’s display and the collective effort:

"I'm delighted to be back. But, more so, delighted with that performance today because we owed that to the fans back home and owed it to ourselves for the work we have put in lately."

Despite the convincing scoreline, Chessum admitted the side still has plenty of work to do:

"It wasn't perfect by any stretch, there was a lot today that we can do better as well. But, what it was, was a squad effort; everyone in the changing room now and every player in the squad who wasn't here today contributed to that win."

Reflecting on the frustrations of limited opportunities this season due to injury, he added:

"It has been a frustrating season for me and frustrating few weeks, chomping at the bit to get back involved. I haven't had the chances to play for the club this season that I would have wanted, I love representing this club and so want to be out there every chance I get."

Head coach Michael Cheika underscored the importance of Chessum’s return not just in terms of on-field performance, but for leadership during a critical phase of the season:

"It's not just his quality he brings on the field that is great to have back but, in terms off the team, he has a strong voice and important leadership role.

"At this point of the season, in the position we are in fighting for a play off place and playing knockout rugby every weekend, it's great to have his leadership back. It's vital."

Chessum quickly shifted focus to the challenge ahead against Harlequins:

"The only thing matters to us is the next team in front of us. For the last ten days, it has been Bristol.

"Now that's done, so the only thing matters from this moment is Harlequins. We have got a short turn around and so need to move on, get ready for next weekend and prepare the best we can again to take on Harlequins in front of a sold out Mattioli Woods Welford Road on Saturday."