World Cup winner Ponsonby among 17 Trailfinders departures

Premiership Women’s Rugby runners-up Trailfinders Women have announced the full list of 17 players that will leave West London this summer.

Ahead of the team’s 52-14 PWR Final defeat to Saracens at the Twickenham Stoop it was announced that USA Women’s Eagles stalwart and club captain Kate Zackary was leaving the club.

Zackary has now been joined by fellow internationals Georgia Ponsonby [Black Ferns], Emma Taylor [Canada], Grace Moore [Ireland], Manon Evans [Wales], Mikiela Nelson [Canada], Sara Seye [Italy] and Shannon Ikahihifo [Ireland] in leaving Trailfinders Sports Club this summer.

Barney Maddison, Trailfinders Women head coach, said: “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.

“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.

“As we continue to evolve and shape our squad for next season, we do so with enormous appreciation for everything these players have given to the club.

“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.”

Shya Pinnock will move to Exeter Chiefs in the offseason, while Cara Brincat will join Leicester Tigers. Celia Quansah has retired, having concluded her playing career with a try for the Barbarians against Wales at Allianz Stadium.

After one season with Trailfinders, scrum-half Isla Norman-Bell has left the club after an influential conclusion to the season. Ellie Boatman, Amelia Buckland-Hurry, Cana Williams, Kim Grundy and Mica Evans have also left the club for pastures new.