Ellie Kildunne Leaves Harlequins After Five Seasons

Ellie Kildunne, the England full-back and key player in the Red Roses' Rugby World Cup victory last year, left Harlequins at the end of the season. The 26-year-old had joined Harlequins from Wasps in 2021 and scored 52 tries in 60 appearances during her time with the club. Harlequins, who were the defending champions in Kildunne’s debut season, faced challenges in maintaining their top position in the domestic league, falling behind teams like Gloucester-Hartpury and Saracens. This season, the Quins did not qualify for the play-offs, having only reached the semi-finals twice during Kildunne's five seasons at The Stoop.

Kildunne's next club has not yet been announced, and while she did not provide a direct statement on the club's announcement, she expressed her sentiments via Instagram. In her message, Kildunne reflected on her time at Harlequins, saying, "After five years at Quins, it’s hard to put into words how much this place has meant to me." She highlighted the moments shared with teammates and the friendships formed, stating that she had always aimed to give her best on the pitch. "I’m incredibly grateful to the supporters and my team-mates who’ve inspired me to play the rugby I love," she added, expressing her sadness at leaving the club.

In October 2025, Kildunne indicated openness to joining the breakaway R360 series, which aims to attract prominent names from both men’s and women’s rugby. However, the series has faced delays, with its launch postponed until at least 2028 due to challenges in obtaining World Rugby's approval and pushback from national unions.

Harlequins' Chief Executive Laurie Dalrymple commented on Kildunne’s departure, stating confidence in the club's women’s program and thanking her for inspiring many female players. "We want to wish Ellie every success in the future and thank her for her contribution to the club, and the women’s game," he said.

Kildunne had also earned the title of World Player of the Year in 2024, notable for her five tries in the World Cup final against Canada. She is not the only notable England player leaving, as Sale has signed England captain Zoe Stratford and teammate Tatyana Heard for the upcoming season. The semi-finals for the current season’s PWR play-offs are set to take place on Sunday, 14 June 2026.