England international Ellie Kildunne will leave Harlequins at the end of the season. Kildunne – who has scored 52 tries for Quins and was named World Player of the Year during her time at the Stoop – leaves after a five-year tenure that saw her miss out on a Premiership title despite joining the then-defending champions in 2021. “After five years at Quins, it’s hard to put into words how much this place has meant to me,” the Rugby World Cup winner wrote in a
post on Instagram. Yapp named head coach of first-ever Lions women’s teamNot got Sky? Get Sky Sports or stream with no contractChoose the Sky Sports push notifications you want “I’ve shared so many moments here – on the field, in the changing room, and with friendships that will stay with me long after I leave. “I’ve always tried to be the best player I can be, giving everything I have every time I step onto the pitch. “For me, that’s always been about being in
the right environment – one where I can be unapologetically myself and work with those who truly value each individual and what they bring to the team. “I’m incredibly grateful to the supporters and my team-mates who’ve inspired me to play the rugby I love. “Things may not always be in our control, and I’m gutted to be leaving, I wish everyone at Quins the best for what’s next.” Harlequins chief executive Laurie Dalrymple added: “Ellie has helped inspire a generation of female players; some
of whom are now coming through our pathway and we are confident the future of Harlequins Women is bright. “We want to wish Ellie every success in the future and thank her for her contribution to the club, and the women’s game.”
Ellie Kildunne, Harlequins, Harlequins Women, England women, Rugby World Cup winner, World Player of the Year, Premiership, Stoop
5 years and only no title?? kinda wild.
So is she going to another team or like retiring? I saw “World Player of the Year” and thought that meant she’d stay forever with the big trophies or whatever. Also Harlequins is like always close, right? Sounds like bad timing more than anything.
Replying to Megan Thompson: didn’t they win a Premiership like… once? Idk rugby seasons blur together for me. But 52 tries is insane, so leaving feels kinda like she got pushed out or something. Hopefully she goes somewhere that actually pays attention.
I don’t get it, she’s basically a legend for them at the Stoop (or wherever) and then just dips after missing out on a title. Coaches always say “the future is bright” but then players leave anyway. Maybe it’s contract stuff, maybe it’s ego, maybe it’s just she wants more tries. Congrats to her though, just wish there was more detail on where she’s headed next.