England forward Marlie Packer, a two-time Rugby World Cup champion, will line up for Harlequins Women next term after confirming her departure from Saracens.

The 36-year-old told BBC Sport she had weighed up hanging up her boots once the 2025-26 campaign ended.

With no fresh deal offered by Saracens, she reached out to Harlequins ahead of the Women's Six Nations to explore options.

The chance to join a standout back-row unit played a key role, alongside her ambition to feature for the British and Irish Lions in 2027.

"The back row featuring Alex Calendar and Aoife Wafer stands out as world-class talent, all with Lions potential," she noted.

"It makes sense to test myself alongside them and discover how our styles mesh, perhaps catching the eye of Lions coach Jo Yapp."

She added that Lions selection had not been a focus before the Six Nations but the move to Quins now supports that goal.

Packer kept her retirement thoughts private at first but a chat with England coach John Mitchell prompted her to reconsider and stay in the game.

Without a contract at Saracens, she took the initiative to contact Harlequins, motivated by family commitments including her son Oliver and a mortgage.

Quins head coach Ross Chisholm observed her training with the Red Roses and valued her presence before offering a spot.

After strong showings in the Six Nations, including player-of-the-match honors versus Wales and Italy, she faced key decisions post-tournament.

Returning to Saracens brought confirmation of no extension, leading her to seek a fresh start close to home, especially with partner Rosie Galligan expecting their second child and Oliver settled in school.

The short commute to Harlequins felt ideal for balancing her commitments.

She will focus solely on playing rather than adding coaching duties at this stage, given the arrival of another baby.

Packer declined to comment on speculation about Galligan also switching clubs.

Despite the historic rivalry between the sides, she expressed no concerns about crossing London and praised the welcoming environment at Harlequins.

Her aims include pushing the team back into title contention and securing a Lions call-up.

She holds fond memories of her time at Saracens and hopes to end her stint there with silverware in the upcoming semi-final against Exeter Chiefs.