Leicester Tigers release five players ahead of new PWR campaign

Leicester Tigers have announced the departure of five players, just one month before the 2026/27 JAECOO Premiership Women’s Rugby season begins.

The departures include wing Freya Greensmith – who only joined the club in June – alongside Lauren Poole, Jordan Russell, Summer Reeves and Phoebe Andrews. The quintet have left the club with immediate effect.

Fraser Goatcher, Director of Women’s Rugby, said: “Leicester Tigers Women would like to thank all departing players for their commitment, hard work, and contributions to the programme.

“Your efforts on and off the pitch have been greatly valued, and you will always be part of the Tigers family. We wish you all the very best in the next chapter of your rugby journeys.”

After finishing bottom of the table last season, Leicester have embarked on a period of regeneration at Mattioli Woods Welford Road as they look to close the gap on the league’s leading sides.

During the previous campaign, the club announced an enhanced growth strategy and additional funding for its women’s team, with the aim of making it more competitive at the top level.

That investment has been accompanied by changes to the coaching staff. Two-time Women’s Six Nations winner Gill Bourke has joined Director of Women’s Rugby Fraser Goatcher’s coaching team as lead forwards coach.

Ben Duke has been appointed lead backs and assistant attack coach, while Ben Slessor will oversee defence and lead the Under-23s programme. Former Nottingham Rugby lock George Cox has also joined as contact skills coach.

Leicester have strengthened their squad with several Wallaroos, including 2025 Wallaroos Player of the Year Tabua Tuinakauvadra, adding depth and experience ahead of the new campaign.

Earlier this week, Leicester announced the signing of USA-qualified prop Caoimhe O’Sullivan Roche, who joins after spending two seasons with the New York Exiles in Women’s Elite Rugby.

In the JAECOO PWR Next Gen Cup, Leicester suffered defeats against Saracens, Exeter Chiefs, Sale Sharks and Loughborough Lightning.

The senior side will begin its Premiership Women’s Rugby campaign on Sunday, 22 November, away to reigning champions Saracens at StoneX Stadium.