Today, Ellie Kildunne is set to start in the Women’s Rugby World Cup final — a moment that marks another milestone in her already remarkable career.
As one of England’s most dynamic players, Kildunne has become a key figure in women’s rugby, known for her speed, skill, and creativity. Here are 10 essential things to know about Ellie Kildunne before she takes the field in this historic match.
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1. Early beginnings in Yorkshire
Ellie Kildunne was born on 8 September 1999 in Keighley, West Yorkshire, England. She began playing rugby at seven, initially in rugby league before switching to rugby union at nine. Her early dedication set the stage for her rapid rise in the sport.
2. Dual-code roots
Kildunne is a versatile player who has excelled in both rugby union and rugby sevens. She represented England in sevens between 2018 and 2020, and later played for Great Britain in 2024. This experience makes her adaptable across formats and tactical systems.
3. Club career trajectory
Began with Gloucester-Hartpury in 2017–2018.
Played for Wasps during the 2020–2021 season.
Since 2021, she has been a star at Harlequins Women.
4. International debut and rise
Ellie Kildunne made her England debut in 2017, scoring a try in her very first match against Canada. Since then, she has grown into a cornerstone of the Red Roses’ backline.
5. Standout 2024 campaign
In 2024, Ellie Kildunne enjoyed a career-defining season:
Top try scorer and top points scorer in the Women’s Six Nations.
Named Player of the Tournament in the 2024 Six Nations.
Awarded World Rugby Women’s 15s Player of the Year in November 2024.
6. Playing style & strengths
Kildunne primarily plays fullback but can excel at centre. Her electric pace, elusive running, and attacking creativity make her one of the most dangerous players on the pitch.
7. 50-cap milestone & try scoring record
By early 2025, Ellie Kildunne was set to earn her 50th cap for England. She has already scored dozens of tries for her country, quickly rising through England’s try-scoring ranks.
8. Recent World Cup impact
In the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup, Kildunne has been crucial to England’s campaign. Her standout moment came in the semi-final against France, where she scored two solo tries to secure England’s 35–17 victory.
9. Off the field: media, brand & personality
Off the pitch, Ellie Kildunne is a media personality and influencer, with her own podcast and brand partnerships. Her outspoken nature and authentic style have made her one of the most recognizable faces in women’s rugby.
10. Relationship with Cameron Sommerville-Bailey
Ellie Kildunne is in a long-term relationship with Cameron Sommerville-Bailey, a director at Complete Renovations. The couple shares moments of their life and travels on social media and supports each other’s endeavors, including attending high-profile events together.
EDITORS PICKS:
Meet the partners cheering on England during Rugby World Cup final
Taking on a Rugby World Cup is no easy task—especially when it’s on your home turf, in front of the roars of England’s faithful. That’s the challenge the Red Roses are facing as they prepare for the World Cup final against Canada this weekend.
But while the spotlight shines on the pitch, there’s another source of strength driving these athletes forward: the unwavering support of their partners. Behind every scrum, sprint, and soaring victory, there’s a network of love, encouragement, and sacrifice.
So, before the final whistle blows, let’s meet the squad behind the squad—the partners who stand firmly in the Roses’ corner.
Ellie Kildunne & Cameron Sommerville-Bailey
Star fullback Ellie Kildunne has long been one of England’s most exciting rugby talents—and her personal life has drawn interest too. She has been in a relationship with Cameron Sommerville-Bailey, a director at Complete Renovations, with the pair previously attending the World Rugby Awards together in 2024.
Recently, fans have noticed fewer pictures of the couple on social media, sparking speculation about whether their relationship has shifted. While some whispers suggest a split, others believe they remain together but are simply keeping things more private as Ellie’s profile rises on the mainstream stage. Neither has commented publicly.
For now, Ellie seems fully focused on her rugby—lighting up the pitch with her trademark flair as she looks to play a starring role in England’s World Cup campaign.
Jess Breach & Archie White
There’s not much public detail about their relationship, but the headlines say it all: Jess Breach shares life with former Harlequins flanker Archie White, who created headlines by stepping away from the game last summer at just 27.
A bold pivot, and no doubt a steadying presence in Jess’s corner.
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