Wales forward Fleming joins Tigers after Quins exit

Wales forward Abbie Fleming will join Leicester Tigers Women for the 2026-27 season.

The 30-year-old lock or flanker is one of three Wales internationals who have left fellow Premiership Women’s Rugby (PWR) side Harlequins, along with Carys Phillips and Lisa Neumann.

She joined Quins in the summer of 2023, making 39 appearances for the Stoop club.

“I’m really looking forward to joining Tigers this season,” said Fleming, who has also played for Cardiff and Exeter.

“I believe in the game plan, and I can’t wait to see what we can achieve together as a club.

“It’s a fresh start, and I’m excited to rebuild and grow as a player at a club whose values I fully align with.”

Leicester finished bottom of PWR last season, losing all 16 of their league games.

Collecting just three bonus points, they finished 31 points below second-bottom Bristol Bears.

“Abbie is somebody who is incredibly physical, we’re really looking forward to seeing what she’s going to add to our defence but also her attacking prowess as well,” said Tigers director of women’s rugby Fraser Goatcher.

“She’s got a great skillset so we’re really looking forward to seeing what she brings.”