Liv Apps has been named the Premiership Women's Rugby (PWR) player of the season after an outstanding campaign for Saracens. The scrum-half formed a formidable partnership with Zoe Harrison, driving Saracens to the league title. England captain Meg Jones earned second place for her leadership at Trailfinders, while Gloucester's Alex Matthews was recognised for her underrated contributions.
Best Player: Liv Apps
Apps, the Saracens No. 9, was described as the team's standout performer. Her synergy with half-back partner Zoe Harrison was key to Saracens' success, according to analysts. Jones, who captained Trailfinders to their first PWR final, impressed with her running lines, tackles, and leadership. Matthews, the Gloucester No. 8, saw her value highlighted when she was injured, as the club's form dipped significantly.
Biggest Fumble: Marlie Packer and Kate Zackary Not Offered Contracts
Saracens co-captain Marlie Packer and Trailfinders captain Kate Zackary both contested the PWR final but were not offered new contracts by their clubs. Packer told the BBC that Saracens declined to renew her deal, leading her to sign with rivals Harlequins. Zackary's contract was also not renewed, with her next destination unconfirmed. Both players are in top form, leading many to view their departures as mistakes.
Best Social Media Content
Saracens embraced their role as the league's villains, with a social media team that asked players, "What is your favourite thing about Gloucester?" Julia Omokhuale's response—"That we're going to beat them"—went viral, even though Gloucester won the match. Gloucester's Mackenzie Carson hosted a "blindside date" series inspired by Amelia Dimoldenberg's Chicken Shop Date. Bristol Bears' signing announcement for Ellie Kildunne, featuring a dramatic reveal, was also praised.
Best Coach: Alex Austerberry
Saracens head coach Alex Austerberry led his team to the top with only two league losses, both to Gloucester-Hartpury. He revealed he sometimes writes notes to players, a practice inspired by a coach who once wrote to him. Trailfinders' Barney Maddison was recognised for building a competitive squad in only the club's third season. Exeter's Steve Salvin was noted for improving the team from fifth place to within reach of the final.
Biggest Shocks
Gloucester-Hartpury, unbeaten before the Women's Six Nations break, lost all subsequent games, including a semi-final defeat to Trailfinders. Injuries to Mo Hunt, Alex Matthews, and Zoe Stratford's pregnancy left gaps that could not be filled. Bristol Bears, a former top-four side, won only six of 16 matches and finished eighth, though they improved in the second half of the season. The PWR final itself was a disappointment, with Saracens dominating Trailfinders after a highly competitive season.
Best Signing: Liana Mikaele-Tu'u
New Zealand international Liana Mikaele-Tu'u joined Harlequins in October and made 13 appearances before leaving in March. She won the club's player of the year award and left a "lasting impression," according to Quins officials.
Improvements Needed
The league should expand to 10 teams to eliminate bye weeks, though this is not expected until the 2027-28 season. Wales, Scotland, Ireland, and clubs like Bath have expressed interest. The PWR also needs a television match official for every game, not just those broadcast on TNT Sports, but financial constraints currently prevent this expansion.
