Title: Kildunne invites bids following Harlequins departure

England international Ellie Kildunne has expressed uncertainty regarding her future club, stating she had no intention of leaving Harlequins and is currently unsure where she will play next season. The 26-year-old full-back’s exit was confirmed by Harlequins on Tuesday, prompting Kildunne to share her feelings on Instagram, where she described herself as “gutted” to depart The Stoop.

Speaking on her Rugby Rodeo podcast, Kildunne admitted the news caught her off guard. “It was news I don’t think I was prepared for,” she said. “I didn’t have plans to leave. It was as much a shock to me as everyone else.”

Reports in The Daily Telegraph suggest that tensions have risen between Kildunne and the coaching staff, with the player, who was diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) last year, having missed several team meetings. Since joining Harlequins from Wasps in 2021, the Women’s Rugby World Cup winner has become linked with multiple potential destinations.

“Everyone is wondering where I am going, and currently I don’t know,” Kildunne said. “I wish I had more of an idea and a plan. The most important thing to me is to be a place where I can carry on being my authentic self and keep progressing to be the best rugby player I can be, and challenged by my team-mates and coaches.”

She issued a direct appeal to interested parties: “Any clubs out there that want to take me, just drop me a message!”

While Brought up in Keighley, Kildunne would theoretically fit Sale Sharks’ strategy of recruiting world-class talent to the north. However, Sale are not believed to be pursuing her signature. The club has already signed Zoe Stratford, Tatyana Heard, and Sarah Beckett from Gloucester-Hartpury this summer. Furthermore, with England internationals Holly Aitchison, Morwenna Talling, and Amy Cokayne already on the roster, the Premiership Women’s Rugby salary cap—currently around £250,000—may restrict their ability to add another high-profile player.

Bristol Bears, who previously secured a three-month loan for American star Ilona Maher and prioritize player marketability in their recruitment, also appear a logical fit. However, they are not considered contenders following a poor season that likely sees them finishing just above last-placed Leicester.

Gloucester-Hartpury, the three-time defending champions, would offer Kildunne the best chance to end her career without a PWR final appearance. Yet, they recently extended the contract of full-back Emma Sing, potentially blocking a move for her friend and fellow England player Jess Breach, who currently wears the number 15 shirt at Saracens.

A move to Ealing Trailfinders could be the most practical option. The club, based in west London, is the nearest top-flight side to Harlequins. They recently secured a play-off spot for the first time and feature England captain Meg Jones at centre. Alternatively, Exeter Chiefs, who announced the departure of seven players on Thursday, may have available space on their roster.

Source: BBC News Generated at: 2026-06-04 19:31:23 UTC