They’ve gone from teenage sweethearts to one of England rugby’s power couples.
The British & Irish Lions have officially announced their inaugural Women’s Tour — and it’s set for New Zealand in 2027.
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The landmark series will take place in September and feature three Test matches against the Black Ferns, the dominant six-time world champions. The Lions will also play pre-Test fixtures, though the full schedule is yet to be finalised.
Lions chair and former Wales winger Ieuan Evans hailed the tour as a monumental step, saying it was a
“key development for women’s rugby and women’s sport in general”.
Lions chief executive Ben Calveley reinforced the significance of the move:
The historic announcement followed a January 2024 feasibility study into the potential for a women’s tour — examining everything from brand strength to logistics, commercial value, and spectator interest.
The Lions, traditionally made up of players from England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, have toured since 1888, with the men rotating between New Zealand, South Africa, and Australia every four years. The women now step into that legacy with their own moment to shine.
Hosts New Zealand Rugby were quick to welcome the opportunity.
“When the opportunity arose to be part of history and have the honour of hosting the inaugural British & Irish Lions Women's Tour, we knew we wanted to be part of it,” said NZR CEO Mark Robinson.
“Women's rugby is growing at pace in New Zealand and following the success of the Rugby World Cup in 2022, we know the excitement world-class competition can generate.”
The 2022 Rugby World Cup saw the Black Ferns edge England in a dramatic final, further cementing their place at the top of the women’s game.
The 2027 tour has already secured sponsorship, adding yet another vote of confidence to this long-anticipated next step for women’s rugby.
After over a century of men’s touring history, the Lions women are ready to write a new chapter.
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The England players WAGs cheering on British & Irish Lions this summer
As the British & Irish Lions gear up for an action-packed summer tour, all eyes won’t just be on the pitch — the stands will be just as captivating.
The England players' WAGs (wives and girlfriends) are preparing to show their unwavering support, bringing glamour, style, and plenty of team spirit along for the ride.
From sun-soaked selfies to heartfelt moments of encouragement, expect these supportive partners to be a vibrant presence throughout the Lions' campaign.
Here's a closer look at the women who’ll be roaring loudest from the sidelines this summer.
Beth Dolling – Singer, Model, and Marcus’s No.1 Fan (Marcus Smith)
Fly-half Marcus Smith is dating Beth Dolling, a 25-year-old singer and model who’s worked with major brands like PrettyLittleThing and built up a sizeable social following.
She’s often snapped in glammed-up couples’ pics with Marcus, and one heartfelt post said it all:
“No matter what, watching you do what you love doing makes me so proud.”
They’ve been Instagram official since June 2021, and with Beth’s fashion flair, expect some serious style moments down under.
Mimi Fall – The new Mrs Itoje (Maro Itoje)
The Lions captain has officially hung up his bachelor boots after tying the knot with long-time partner Mimi Fall – just weeks before the tour kicks off.
The towering second-row proposed during a sun-soaked getaway to Nigeria and Ghana in August 2024, popping the question at a dreamy waterside resort in Ada, just outside Accra. “It was a beautiful resort,” Maro told the Daily Mail. “I popped the question there.” Job done.
Mimi confirmed the engagement with a sparkling Instagram reveal, flashing the rock and writing: "Mrs I to be." Cue the collective swoon.
Fast forward to May 25, and the couple sealed the deal with a stylish ceremony in London’s swanky Mayfair. The snaps say it all – pure class, serious suits, and big smiles all round.
Sharing the news online, Maro wrote:
"Scripture says it is not good for man to be alone… I am no longer alone. I HAVE A WIFE. To God be the Glory!!!!"
"Scripture says it is not good for man to be alone… I am no longer alone. I HAVE A WIFE. To God be the Glory!!!!"
Ashleigh Inwood – Five Years Strong with Freeman (Tommy Freeman)
Northampton flier Tommy Freeman has been dating Ashleigh Inwood for over five years. They now share a home near Northampton and a future that looks just as promising as Tommy’s England career.
Freeman recently posted a loved-up tribute: “Five years. Forever grateful for your support.”
But don’t worry — there’s still room in his heart for Fin Smith. Tommy joked to MailOnline: “Our girlfriends aren’t happy because they think we like each other more than them!”
But don’t worry — there’s still room in his heart for Fin Smith. Tommy joked to MailOnline: “Our girlfriends aren’t happy because they think we like each other more than them!”
Nancy Neath – Design Star with an Eye for Decor (Will Stuart)
Prop Will Stuart’s girlfriend Nancy Neath is a creative talent in her own right, running a successful table and floral design business that’s got serious aesthetic game.
The couple moved in together in 2023, though not without hiccups. Will revealed: “My girlfriend chose a new mattress — it’s too soft. I’ve ended up on the floor a few times tucked in a duvet.” Rugby tackles are rough, but love is tougher.
Gracie Hand - The long-term couple (Fin Smith)
Student Gracie tends to keep her private life low-key, but Fin posts adorable selfies of them together, sharing glimpses of their relationship with his followers.
Michelle Daly – From School Romance to Family Life (Elliot Daly)
Elliot Daly married longtime love Michelle in 2021 after years together and one perfectly timed proposal. The pair have now welcomed a daughter, Orla, born in July 2024.
Elliot summed it up sweetly on their anniversary: “One month ago today, I got to marry my soulmate. 10 years of knowing each other, 4 years engaged, and now finally married. My Wife.”
Can You Name Every 2021 British & Irish Lions Player?
Think you remember the 2021 Lions tour of South Africa? It’s been a few years since that brutal, bruising, and controversial Test series — but true rugby heads never forget.
RUCK’s Lions content is powered by ISUZU.
- 42 players were named in Warren Gatland’s final squad
- The Lions won the First Test 22-17, but the Springboks hit back to win the series 2-1
- The decider? A gritty 19-16 Springbok victory that still stings for many fans
Now it's time to test your memory.
- How many of those 42 Lions can you name?
- No hints. No positions. Just rugby IQ.
- You’ve got 5 minutes.
Take the quiz, scroll down, and start typing.
Let’s see what you’re made of.
Let’s see what you’re made of.
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