Bristol show title intent by signing two England stars

BRISTOL Bears Women have shown their intent to be challenging at the top end of the Allianz Premier 15s next season by signing two England internationals.

Red Roses lock Abbie Ward, 28, arrives in the West Country after helping Harlequins Women secure their maiden Allianz Premier 15s title last season.

The 46-cap England international enjoyed a stellar campaign in the coloured quarters, which saw her named in the 2020-21 AP15s team of the season after registering nine tries, 14 line-out steals, 21 turnovers and completing 155 tackles.

The Bears have also announced the signing of Red Roses scrum-half Leanne Riley, after four seasons at Harlequins.

Riley, 27, has been capped on 44 occasions by England and scored four tries. The livewire number nine will add strength and depth to Dave Ward’s options in the halfbacks.

Ward said: “Leanne is a worldclass operator at the base of the scrum and alongside Abbie, she has been at the forefront of Quins’ push to become champions over the last three seasons.

“We have a number of talented scrum halves at the club and Leanne will add real competition and depth to that group, which should hopefully raise the level of her game and those around her.”

Bristol-bound Riley added: “Dave has a clear vision of where he wants to take the club and how he plans to get there, which really excited me when we had our initial discussions.

“It’s a new challenge for me and I’m always seeking an environment that is going to push me to become a better player and person, and what the club are aiming to build will certainly look to do that.”