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Quick Hits: Ella Cromack

ella cromack
Getting to know England U20 and Harlequins fly-half Ella Cromack, who's set to feature in this July's Women's Summer Series in Italy.

How has this season gone for you? For me, playing at Twickenham and playing in the PWR, I’ve just had loads of fun and really enjoyed it. This being my first season in the quarters of Harlequins, I was shocked at the amount of game time I’ve had, but ultimately I’m grateful.

What is your rugby background? My dad grew up playing, so it was the natural progression for me. I joined Newbury RFC and played there until I was eight, when girls aren’t allowed to play with the boys anymore. I then moved to Reading Rugby. From there my game developed and opportunities arose for England U18 honours, then I signed for Quins last year.

Was it always going to be rugby? Football has always been a big part of my life, there was a time where I was going to choose football over rugby, but I stuck with my roots and my dad helped that decision.

Can England bring it home in Germany? I back them. IT’S COMING HOME!   

How does being at Quins prepare you for international age grade rugby? We are training with Red Roses week in week out at our clubs, I think it shows on the pitch as we are surrounded by better players. You are only going to get better if you are surrounded by the best.

You were involved in some of the pre-Guinness Women’s Six Nations training camps. What was that like? It was unreal. I was just grateful for the opportunity. Now that I’ve had a taste of that I want to be involved in future camps.   

The Women's Summer Series is in Parma this year. Is that something you're looking forward to? For the players that were involved, we loved the U18 Six Nations Festival, so having another age grade competition where the level is even higher is exciting.  

Are you looking forward testing yourself against the best? 100%. You are only going to be the best if you play the best. It’s a great opportunity to come full circle and see how we have developed. We are just excited and ready for the challenge.

What role do you think the Women’s Summer Series will play in the development of the women’s game? It will hopefully get the women’s game some increased traction. With a home World Cup to come [in 2025], that’s what the game needs.

Do you view it as a step closer to running out in a Guinness Women’s Six Nations or World Cup? It’s the first tournament of its kind so it’s going to be huge for the game. This helps bridge the gap and makes players more comfortable in this environment.   

What would a successful Women’s Summer Series look like to you? Making sure that I’m showcasing my ability on the age grade international stage and just enjoying it. I know that when I’m enjoying it, I’m playing my best.   

What are your rugby goals going into next season? I want to be involved in that Red Roses World Cup squad. At club level I would love to start the ‘Big Game’ at Twickenham - that would be cool.   

Where do you see yourself in the next five years in rugby? Hopefully with a few Red Roses caps. 

Has the first ever Women’s British and Irish Lions tour in 2027 crossed your mind? It has. That’s a goal. If it happens, it happens! 

Outside of rugby, what hobbies do you have? Sketching, fashion and photography are my main hobbies. I’ve got a bit of my photography passion from Ellie Kildunne.     

If you wanted to be remembered for anything, what would it be? Winning a World Cup final would be up there. Everyone remembers Jonny Wilkinson’s drop goal in 2003!   

Favourite film or TV series? I get a lot of stick for this, but… Dance Mums. 

Do you have any pregame rituals or superstitions? My dad and I have matching bracelets. Before every game I put it in my right sock, so when I kick [right footed] I know he’s on the pitch with me.   

Best friend(s) in rugby? Bristol Bears’ Millie David, who I grew up playing with, and Katie Shillaker (she is my rock at Quins).