Ellie Kildunne to Depart Harlequins Following England World Cup Triumph

England international and full-back Ellie Kildunne has confirmed she will be leaving Harlequins when the current season concludes. The 26-year-old, who played a pivotal role in the Red Roses’ recent Rugby World Cup victory, is departing the club after a five-year stint.

Kildunne originally joined Harlequins from Wasps in 2021. During her time at The Stoop, she has made 60 appearances and scored 52 tries. Her arrival coincided with the club’s status as defending Premiership Women's Rugby (PWR) champions. However, the team’s fortunes have shifted since then; Harlequins have been surpassed by dominant forces such as Gloucester-Hartpury and Saracens in the domestic hierarchy. Consequently, the club has failed to reach the play-offs this year, marking only two semi-final appearances for Kildunne across her five seasons with the side.

While her next destination remains unconfirmed, Kildunne took to Instagram to reflect on her departure, noting that she had not provided a direct quote to the club regarding the move.

"Reflecting on five years at Quins, it is difficult to express the significance this institution holds for me," she wrote. "I have cherished numerous experiences here—whether competing on the pitch, sharing locker room bonds, or forging friendships that will endure long after my departure."

She emphasized her commitment to excellence and the importance of her surroundings: "My goal has always been to maximize my potential, dedicating my full effort each time I play. For me, success is tied to being in an environment that allows me to be authentically myself, surrounded by people who genuinely value individual contributions to the collective."

Kildunne expressed deep appreciation for her teammates and fans, who she credited for inspiring her passion for the sport. "While we cannot control every outcome, I am devastated to be leaving. I wish everyone at Harlequins every success in the future," she added.

Kildunne’s potential exit comes amid broader changes in the women’s game. Earlier this year, she indicated openness to joining the R360 series, a proposed breakaway global circuit modeled after Formula 1. The initiative, which sought to attract top talent from both men’s and women’s rugby, has faced significant hurdles. Due to resistance from national unions and challenges in securing World Rugby ratification, the launch of R360 has been delayed until at least 2028.

Harlequins chief executive Laurie Dalrymple praised Kildunne’s impact, stating, "Ellie has inspired a new generation of female athletes, several of whom are now progressing through our development pathways. We remain confident that the future of Harlequins Women is bright." He added, "We wish Ellie every success in her next chapter and thank her for her invaluable contributions to both the club and the women’s game."

Kildunne’s recent accolades include being named World Player of the Year in 2024. She was instrumental in England’s World Cup success last year, scoring five tries, including a standout solo effort in the final against Canada.

She is not the only high-profile England player changing clubs this summer. Sale Sharks have secured the signatures of England captain Zoe Stratford and international teammate Tatyana Heard for the upcoming season. Meanwhile, the race for the PWR title continues, with reigning champions Gloucester-Hartpury, Saracens, Exeter, and Ealing Trailfinders set to compete in the play-offs. The semi-final matches are scheduled for Sunday, 14 June.

Source: BBC News Generated at: 2026-06-02 16:39:12 UTC