Marlie Packer to leave Saracens after nine years and three Premiership titles

Marlie Packer will leave Saracens when the current season concludes, the club confirmed, drawing the curtain on a nine-year association that made the England flanker one of the most decorated players in the club’s history. The 36-year-old joined from Bristol in 2017 and goes with three Premiership Women’s Rugby titles to her name.

Packer, who has earned 116 caps for the Red Roses and captained the side alongside Lotte Sharp, was named World Rugby Women’s 15s Player of the Year in 2023 after leading England to the WXV 1 title. She also made an appearance at Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 as England lifted the trophy at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham.

“After nine incredible years, the time has come for me to say goodbye to Saracens,” Packer said. “This club has been a huge part of my life and has given me memories that I will carry with me forever. From the friendships made and battles fought on the pitch to the highs of winning three Premiership titles, and hopefully one more, it has been an unforgettable journey.”

She added: “Leaving was not an easy decision, and I will miss being around the club, the girls and everything that comes with it. But I will always look back on these nine years with immense gratitude and pride.”

Packer showed she remains a force at the top level during this year’s Guinness Women’s Six Nations, collecting consecutive Player of the Match awards against Wales and Italy. Her next destination has not been confirmed.

Saracens Women’s Director of Rugby Alex Austerberry paid tribute to a player he described as central to the club’s identity throughout the professional era. “Her competitiveness, quality and ability to deliver in the biggest moments have helped shape this club,” he said. “For much of the last decade, Marlie has been a captain, leader, trailblazer and advocate for the women’s game. Quite simply, she has embodied what it means to be a Saracen.”

Austerberry noted that Packer’s departure is not yet complete, with the prospect of further silverware still alive before she moves on. “Before she departs there is still an opportunity to create even more special memories together,” he said.