England's celebrated full-back, Ellie Kildunne, has announced her commitment to Bristol Bears, joining the club for the 2026-27 Premiership Women's Rugby season. The 26-year-old's move follows her recent departure from Harlequins, where she spent five successful years. Kildunne had previously indicated uncertainty about her next club destination, but speaking exclusively to BBC Sport, she expressed immense relief and satisfaction with her decision.
Kildunne, a former World Player of the Year and World Cup winner, revealed that the move to Bristol brought her a sense of 'comfort' after a period of indecision. She emphasised the importance of finding the 'right club' and stated that conversations with the Bears' coaching staff quickly solidified her choice. Her mother's emotional reaction to the news, seeing it as 'truly right' for her daughter, further underscored the positive nature of the decision for the player.
The Keighley-born athlete, who has earned 62 caps for England and scored 48 tries since her international debut at 18, was a pivotal figure in the Red Roses' recent Women's Six Nations Grand Slam triumph, featuring in every match and touching down five times. While she admitted to being 'gutted' to leave Harlequins, Kildunne explained that she felt ready for a change, having considered a move to the West Country previously. She viewed the recent period of uncertainty not as stressful, but as a clear sign that it was time to progress.
Bristol Bears, despite finishing eighth in the PWR table this season, have a growing reputation for attracting high-profile talent. The club's recruitment strategy, which considers player marketability alongside sporting prowess, has seen them sign international stars such as American Ilona Maher and New Zealand captain Ruahei Demant. The Bears' dynamic, running rugby style was a significant draw for Kildunne, who also appreciated the club's experience in managing players with demanding external commitments.
Kildunne highlighted that while rugby remains her absolute priority, the support offered by Bristol's staff to balance her on-field commitments with other ventures, including aiding the progression of women's rugby, was a crucial factor. She will reunite with several England teammates at Bristol, including Sarah Bern, Hannah Botterman, Abbie Ward, and Lark Atkin-Davies, and expressed confidence that her 'best is still yet to come' in her rugby career.
Source: BBC Sport