Double Joy: Rainbow Baby Arrival, Lions Selection, and Test Bench Spot Against Australia
Rugby NewsSaturday, 19 July 2025 at 09:33
It was double celebration last month in the Porter household, as Ireland and Leinster prop Andrew Porter not only earned selection for the 2025 British & Irish Lions tour to Australia — he also became a first-time father.
The 28-year-old and his wife Elaine shared the heartwarming news on Instagram, posting a stunning black and white photo of their newborn son’s tiny hands being held by his proud parents.
Now, the celebrations continue as Porter has been named on the bench for the first Test against Australia.
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The caption read simply:
“Our perfect baby boy.”
View this post on Instagram
Joy After Heartbreak
Their son's arrival marks a hugely emotional moment for the couple, who previously opened up about the heartbreak of suffering two miscarriages in 2024. In January this year, they shared the news that they were expecting their rainbow baby, writing:
Halfway there baby boy. 2024 was a rollercoaster of a year after 2 miscarriages, but we are starting 2025 with the biggest blessing and cannot wait to meet him in a few months time.”
Spreading Support and Positivity
They also took a moment to offer support to others going through similar experiences, saying:
“Sending love to anyone who has struggled with pregnancy at any stage, you’re not alone.”
“Sending love to anyone who has struggled with pregnancy at any stage, you’re not alone.”
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A Big Year On and Off the Pitch
The couple have yet to reveal their son’s name, but the rugby community — and fans around the world — are already sending their congratulations.
It’s been a monumental year for Porter, who now has both a Lions jersey and a newborn in his hands — and he’ll no doubt be hoping to carry that momentum into Australia this summer.
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Maro and Mimi Itoje are one of rugby’s richest couple with huge net worth
Here’s a look at the top rugby couples—ranked from the humblest fortunes to the biggest bank accounts.
Maro & Mimi Itoje – Lions captains new partner (£5m)
England skipper Maro Itoje may be one of rugby’s sharpest minds — but off the pitch, it’s his wife Mimi who steals the spotlight.
A striking blend of talent and beauty, Mimi Itoje (née unknown) is a model and artist with a flair for culture, creativity, and high fashion. She’s strutted her stuff with top London agencies like W Management and isn’t just a face — she’s an artist too, known for bold acrylics on canvas inspired by her heritage.
Maro, who’s no stranger to the camera himself, has even graced the cover of Tatler alongside Lady Amelia Windsor. It’s believed that sparks flew during a shoot — and the rest, as they say, is history.
The Saracens lock proposed during a romantic trip to West Africa in August 2024, dropping to one knee at a luxury resort in Ada, Ghana. He told the Daily Mail:
"We went to this beautiful aqua-safari in Ada, which is on the coast, about two hours from Accra. It was a beautiful resort, and I popped the question there."
Mimi announced the engagement with a glowing Instagram post, flashing her sparkling ring with the caption:
"Mrs I to be."
"Mrs I to be."
The couple tied the knot in early May 2025 — just weeks before Maro leads the Lions on tour. The England captain took to social media to share the moment:
“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!!!!”
Johnny & Laura Sexton – The Dublin Dream Team (£7m)
From teenage sweethearts to one of rugby’s wealthiest pairs, Johnny and Laura Sexton have captured fans’ hearts as much as Johnny’s kicks have clinched games. Their love story began at Rathgar Tennis Club, blossoming all the way to marriage in 2013.
With three kids cheering on dad from the sidelines, the Sextons are as iconic off the field as Johnny is on it. The couple’s journey—from Saint Mary’s College to University College Dublin—stands as a testament to commitment and love.
Siya & Rachel Kolisi – The Power Couple with a Purpose (£14m)
Siya and Rachel Kolisi’s £10 million empire wasn’t just built on rugby; it’s infused with purpose. The Kolisis are widely admired for their philanthropic work, especially through the Kolisi Foundation, which uplifts underprivileged communities.
Although the couple recently parted ways, Rachel remains a key influence in Siya’s life. Now back with the Sharks after a stint in France, Siya continues to value her steadfast support. Despite the split, their legacy as South Africa’s “golden couple” lives on.
Sonny Bill & Alana Williams – The Ring, the Romance, and the Riches (£20m)
Sonny Bill Williams, the Kiwi powerhouse, is famed not just for rugby but for his ventures into the boxing ring. Known for his versatility on the field and knockout power off it, he’s carved a unique sports career.
His whirlwind romance with Alana Raffie, culminating in a four-week engagement, sparked as much intrigue as his sporting accomplishments. Now worth £20 million, the couple’s success story includes rugby, league, boxing, and plenty of endorsements.
Jonny & Shelley Wilkinson – A Hero’s Quiet Empire (£22m)
Jonny Wilkinson isn’t just a legend on the field; he’s a legend in love too. After leading England to the 2003 Rugby World Cup victory, Wilkinson has kept a low profile with his wife, Shelley Jenkins.
They wed in 2013 on the scenic French Riviera, and now with a young son, they’re embracing family life in the quiet lane. Worth £22 million, Jonny’s legacy as one of rugby’s finest is matched by his financial success and family’s privacy.
Mike & Zara Tindall – Royal Connections and Reality TV (£30m)
Now the richest rugby couple!
“Fridge” by nickname, royalty by association, Mike Tindall’s wealth and fame go beyond rugby.
Married to Zara Phillips, Queen Elizabeth II’s granddaughter, Tindall has firmly planted himself in British pop culture. From breaking his nose eight times to breaking records in rugby, Mike’s career has been nothing short of resilient.
Since retirement, he’s taken his profile to new heights with appearances on shows like I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here and Bear Grylls: Mission Survive
Can you name every England Rugby captain of the professional era?
From the early days of professionalism to the modern era, England has seen a host of legendary captains wearing the armband.
Whether it's the grit of Will Carling in the 90s, the tactical brilliance of Martin Johnson, or the fearless leadership of Owen Farrell, this quiz will challenge even the most dedicated fans.
Think you can name them all? Grab your boots and let's see how well you know the men who led England into battle on the world stage!
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