Talking Rugby — 8 June 2026

Kildunne leaves Harlequins

The biggest story in women's club rugby this week: Harlequins have confirmed that Ellie Kildunne will depart the club at the end of the 2025/26 season, bringing a five-year chapter at The Stoop to a close.

The news broke in a way that told its own story. Harlequins issued a four-paragraph statement that contained no quote from Kildunne herself. She responded on Instagram — saying she was "gutted" to be leaving, wishing everyone at Quins well, and signing off with characteristic warmth. Two very different tones.

As for what comes next, Kildunne has said she doesn't yet know where she'll be playing next season. Bristol Bears have been mentioned. Wherever she lands, someone is getting one of the best players in the world.

The business end of the PWR

The PWR semi-finals take place this weekend (13–14 June), with the final scheduled for 27–28 June at The Stoop — which will host the climax of the season without its most high-profile player. Gloucester-Hartpury are chasing a historic fourth consecutive title. It promises to be a good one.

Your club could win £10,000

Royal London has opened applications for its 2026 Championing Women and Girls' Grassroots Rugby Award. Now in its third year, the initiative recognises four clubs — one from each of England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales — who will each receive a £10,000 grant to invest in their women and girls' programmes.

Applications close at 12pm on Monday 20 July 2026. If your club is doing something brilliant for women's rugby in your community, this is worth ten minutes of your time. Apply via the British & Irish Lions website.

— XV Editor

Sources: Sky Sports, Planet Rugby, British & Irish Lions, Rugby Pass. All stories verified from multiple sources before publication.