Harlequins have announced that Ellie Kildunne, the World Rugby Women’s 15s Player of the Year and GB 7s Olympian, has signed a new multi-year contract with the club.
A product of Keighley RUFC, Kildunne has made an indelible mark on the international and club stages. Since her Test debut for England in 2017, where she scored a try against Canada, Kildunne has earned 46 caps for the Red Roses, amassing an impressive 120 points (24 tries).
She has also contributed to England’s dominance in the Six Nations, helping secure four consecutive titles, including two Grand Slams.
Kildunne was a key figure in England’s run to the final at the 2022 Rugby World Cup in New Zealand and recently represented her country in the 2024 WXV 1 tournament in Canada.
The versatile fullback also showcased her skills on the Olympic stage, representing GB 7s at the Paris Games, alongside fellow Harlequins players Heather Cowell, Kayleigh Powell, Grace Crompton, and Lauren Torley.
Since joining Harlequins from Wasps in 2021, Kildunne has become a cornerstone of the team, making 40 appearances and further enhancing her reputation with dynamic performances. Her impact was recognized last month when she was named World Rugby Women’s Player of the Year.
Head Coach Ross Chisholm emphasized her importance to the team: “We’re thrilled Ellie has renewed with the Club. She’s central to how we want to play the game and encapsulates exactly what it means to play the Quins way.”
Chisholm also highlighted Kildunne’s leadership and drive to improve, even after receiving such a prestigious accolade: “Ellie is always striving to be better. Even after winning World Player of the Year, she’s talking about what she’s going to do in 2025. We’re excited to see what that’ll be in a Quins shirt over the next few years.”