Harlequins sign Marlie Packer

Harlequins Women have confirmed the signing of England back-row Marlie Packer from Saracens ahead of the 2026/27 season.

The move brings one of the most decorated players in women’s rugby to South West London as Quins look to strengthen their squad.

Harlequins Sign Marlie Packer From Saracens

Packer will join Harlequins after a long spell with Saracens, where she has played since 2017. The back-row forward scored 90 tries in 119 appearances for the North London club and won three Premier 15s titles.

Before joining Saracens, Packer also had spells with Bristol and Wasps. Her move across London is a major addition for Harlequins, who are aiming to return to the top four in Premiership Women’s Rugby.

Marlie Packer Brings World Cup Experience

Packer arrives with a distinguished international record for England. She has won two Rugby World Cups, having been part of the 2014 and 2025 winning squads, and has earned 116 caps for the Red Roses.

The former England captain also has 59 international tries, placing her second on her country’s all-time try-scoring list. She was named World Player of the Year in 2023 and has won ten Six Nations titles during her career.

Ross Chisholm Welcomes Harlequins Signing

Harlequins head coach Ross Chisholm said Packer’s leadership, hunger and experience would add significant value to the squad. He also praised her recent form in the Women’s Six Nations and Premiership Women’s Rugby.

“Marlie is one of the most decorated players in the game and has been one of the very best in the world for many years. We’ve seen throughout her career how much leadership and hunger she brings to any side that she plays for.

"I thought Marlie was outstanding during the Six Nations and has been hugely impressive this season in the PWR as well".

Packer said she was excited by the move and highlighted Harlequins’ young squad, strong back-row options and passionate fanbase. She said her aim is to help Quins become a competitive side and return to the top four.

“This is a new chapter and one that I am really excited for - the squad is really exciting! There are some young, talented players here and the backrow is also exceptional, with the likes of Aoife Wafer.

"Being able to play alongside those players is something I am really looking forward to. This can be a very competitive team, and my aim is to help Harlequins get back into the top four.”