Bristol centurion 'proud' to extend stay with Bears

Delaney Burns has become the second Bristol Bears player to pledge their future to the West Country side.

The 24-year-old, who made her 100th appearance for the club against Harlequins at the Principality Stadium in March, joined the side in 2019 and has won four caps for England’s Red Roses.

She follows fellow England international forward Demelza Short in re-signing for Scott Lawson’s team.

Her latest Test cap came against Wales in Round 3 of the 2026 Guinness Women’s Six Nations at Bristol’s Ashton Gate Stadium. The world champions registered a 62-24 victory and are top of the table in the fallow week. It was Burns’ first cap in three years.

“I’m really proud to be extending my time at Bears,” Burns said. “This club has been such a big part of my journey since joining in 2019, and reaching 100 appearances here was a really special moment for me.

“I feel like I’m continuing to grow both on and off the field, and I’m grateful to the coaches, staff and my teammates for the support they’ve given me along the way. Pulling on the shirt every week means a lot, and I’m excited to keep pushing myself and contributing to what we’re building as a group.”

Bristol have endured a challenging Premiership Women’s Rugby season so far. The first half of their season could be measured with their one win, registered against Leicester Tigers in Round 2 of the new season.

In the New Year things picked up for Scott Lawson’s side. Four wins and a draw mean that the West Country side are eighth in the overall standings. With two games left to play this season their hopes of reaching the knockouts are over.

Scott Lawson, Bristol Bears head coach, said: “Delaney has been a hugely important player for this club over a number of years, and we’re delighted she’s committed her future to Bears.

“Reaching 100 appearances at such a young age is a fantastic achievement and speaks volumes about her consistency, durability and the standards she sets every day.

“She continues to develop her game and her recent recognition with the Red Roses is thoroughly deserved. Delaney leads by example on and off the field, and her experience, work rate and physicality are invaluable to the squad.

“We’re excited to see her continue to grow and play a key role in what we’re building here at Bears.”