Marlie Packer, a two‑time Women’s Rugby World Cup champion, will leave Saracens to join Harlequins next season. After Saracens offered no contract, the 36‑year‑old seized the chance herself, citing the club’s world‑class back‑row and proximity to her family as decisive factors. The move follows a Six Nations campaign that saw her earn player‑of‑the‑match honors against Wales and Italy.

Packer said a chat with England head coach John Mitchell refocused her on playing for the British and Irish Lions in 2027. She praised Harlequins’ back‑row trio—Alex Calendar and Aoife Wafer—as “world‑class” and potential Lions teammates, noting that the club’s style could impress Jo Yapp. The decision also aligns with her family’s needs, as her son Oliver attends a nearby school.

Ross Chisholm, Harlequins’ head coach, met Packer after seeing her at Red Roses training and praised her attitude and impact. He said she would be a good fit for the club, echoing Saracens’ earlier stance that she was a bridesmaid rather than a champion. Packer now aims to help Quins return to the top four and, ultimately, win the Premiership Women’s Rugby title.

With a second child on the way, Packer balances playing with future coaching ambitions and university rugby talks. She dismisses rumours that her partner, fellow World Cup winner Rosie Galligan, will join Quins, noting that the move keeps her close to home. Saracens will finish the season with a semi‑final against Exeter Chiefs, while Packer looks to close with a championship.