'I will miss being around the club': Packer to exit Saracens after nine years

Two-time Women’s Rugby World Cup winner Marlie Packer will end her nine-year stay with Saracens at the conclusion of this season.

Packer has won three Premiership Women’s Rugby titles with the North London side across a period of domestic dominance only bettered by that of Gloucester Hartpury across the past three campaigns.

The 36-year-old, who has won 116 caps for England’s Red Roses, joined Saracens in 2017 from Bristol, and has captained the club alongside Lotte Sharp for numerous years.

In 2023 she was named World Rugby Women’s 15s Player of the Year after she captained England to a WXV 1 title and made one appearance at Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 as the Red Roses lifted the trophy at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham.

Packer said: “After nine incredible years, the time has come for me to say goodbye to Saracens. 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.

“I am incredibly proud to have worn this shirt and to have been part of such a special group of players, coaches, staff, volunteers and supporters throughout my time here. Thank you to everyone who has been part of the journey and helped make my time at Saracens so memorable.

“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. Thank you for everything.”

Packer, who scored six tries on her Saracens debut, will be a big miss to Alex Austerberry’s pack. A staple of the forward pack, it is rare to see the North Londoners without the flanker in their starting XV.

At this year’s Guinness Women’s Six Nations, Packer proved that there was still gas in the tank as she picked up consecutive Player of the Match awards against Wales and Italy. The 36-year-old’s next destination has not been confirmed.

Alex Austerberry, Saracens’ Women’s Director of Rugby, said: “Marlie has been an exceptional servant to Saracens and has contributed enormously to the success of the club. There have been many great players to represent Saracens and Marlie will undoubtedly be remembered as one of them.

“Her competitiveness, quality and ability to deliver in the biggest moments have helped shape this club throughout the professional era.

“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.

“On behalf of everyone at the club, I would like to thank her for everything she has contributed and achieved. We wish her every success in the next chapter of her career, but before she departs there is still an opportunity to create even more special memories together.”