World Cup winner Ponsonby among 17 players leaving Trailfinders Women this summer

Trailfinders Women have confirmed the departure of 17 players this summer, headlined by Black Ferns World Cup winner Georgia Ponsonby and USA Eagles captain Kate Zackary, as the West London club reshapes its squad following a 52-14 PWR Final defeat to Saracens at the Twickenham Stoop.

Zackary’s exit had been announced ahead of the final, but the club has now revealed the full list of outgoing players, which includes a significant international contingent. Canada’s Emma Taylor and Mikiela Nelson, Ireland’s Grace Moore and Shannon Ikahihifo, Wales’ Manon Evans, and Italy’s Sara Seye are all among those moving on.

Two departures have confirmed destinations within the Premiership Women’s Rugby division. Shya Pinnock will join Exeter Chiefs, while Cara Brincat heads to Leicester Tigers. Scrum-half Isla Norman-Bell departs after a single influential season, and Celia Quansah has retired from playing altogether, having ended her career with a try for the Barbarians against Wales at Allianz Stadium. Ellie Boatman, Amelia Buckland-Hurry, Cana Williams, Kim Grundy, and Mica Evans have also left the club.

Head coach Barney Maddison paid tribute to the departing group, acknowledging the role they played in guiding Trailfinders to a first PWR Final appearance. “Every player who joins this club adds something to the journey, and I’d like to thank each of those who will be moving on to a new challenge,” he said.

“This group has helped drive the standards, culture and performances that have brought us to a final, and they should be incredibly proud of the role they’ve played. Some have been with us for years, others for a shorter period, but all have contributed to the progress of this team.”

Maddison added that the club departs with full appreciation for the contributions made. “Their trail may now lead elsewhere, but they will always be part of this chapter in our history, and they each leave with our gratitude, respect and best wishes.”

The scale of the exodus underlines the significant squad rebuild Trailfinders face ahead of next season as they look to go one step further than a runners-up finish.