England star Ellie Kildunne reveals her biggest "rugby ick”
Rugby NewsThursday, 08 January 2026 at 18:51
Ellie Kildunne was simply unplayable as England stormed to the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup, further cementing her reputation as one of rugby’s brightest talents.
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Her explosive pace, sharp vision, and instinctive playmaking were pivotal to the Red Roses’ historic triumph, and her performances have captured the imagination of fans across the globe.
Kildunne’s journey to the pinnacle of women’s rugby has been defined by determination. From grassroots rugby as a young girl to becoming a central figure in England’s national side, her rise reflects not only immense talent but also resilience and hard work.
Known for her creativity on the pitch, Ellie has become a player who blends instinct with tactical precision — a combination that makes her unforgettable to both teammates and fans.
Off the pitch, Ellie’s personality is just as engaging as her rugby. Her candid and approachable style has made her a fan favourite, but there’s one surprising detail she recently revealed about her rugby life — something she describes as her “ick.” When asked what she can’t stand in training, Ellie laughed and said: “Wearing long socks for training.”
While it might sound trivial, it gives fans a glimpse into the human side of elite rugby — the quirks and little things that make even champions relatable. For Ellie, her success has always been built on embracing the highs and working through the little annoyances along the way.
Rugby's Power Couples: The Top 20 Stars and Their Partners (Ranked 20-1)
Whether they’re lifting trophies, breaking records, or lighting up red carpets, these duos are redefining what it means to be a rugby partnership in 2025.
20. Ben White & Jodie Burridge
Scotland’s fiery scrum-half and British tennis ace Jodie bring the heat wherever they go — sporty, ambitious, and full of energy.
19. George Ford & Atdhetare Hoxha
England’s composed fly-half and his elegant fiancée keep things classic and classy. A quiet power couple in every sense.
18. Maro Itoje & Mimi Itoje
Understated, intelligent, and effortlessly cool. England’s cerebral lock and his stylish wife keep the spotlight where it belongs — on excellence.
17. Joe Marchant & Hollie Shearer
A rugby star meets football royalty’s daughter — the son-in-law Alan Shearer didn’t know he needed! A fun, media-friendly modern pair.
16. Marcus Smith & Beth Dolling
England’s flair player and his model-singer girlfriend bring fashion and flair to the rugby world. A young couple with superstar potential.
15. Simon Easterby & Sarra Elgan
Ireland’s forwards coach and the Welsh presenter are a rugby broadcasting dream team — brains, beauty, and a shared love of the game.
14. Finn Russell & Emma Canning
The Scottish playmaker and his multi-talented heptathlete partner are electric — charm, cheek, and competitiveness rolled into one.
13. Eben Etzebeth & Anlia van Rensburg
The Springbok enforcer and South African singer-songwriter embody raw passion and power — rugby grit meets glamour.
12. Brian O'Driscoll & Amy Huberman
Still Ireland’s golden couple. The legendary centre and the beloved actress have long mastered the art of fame, family, and fun.
11. Dan Carter & Honor Carter
New Zealand’s ultimate glamour pair. Two sporting stars, one golden legacy — and still the blueprint for “couple goals” in rugby circles.
10. Richie McCaw & Gemma McCaw
The GOAT himself and an Olympic hockey star — humble, heroic, and still New Zealand’s most admired pairing.
9. Johnny Sexton & Laura Sexton
The Irish legend and his wife Laura have been together through every phase of his glittering career. A partnership built on loyalty and love.
8. Jonny Wilkinson & Shelley Jenkins
The man who won England the 2003 World Cup — and the woman who helped him find peace after it. Calm, grounded, and utterly iconic.
7. George North & Becky James
A Welsh rugby great and an Olympic medalist cyclist — the ultimate all-athlete duo. Fast, focused, and family-first.
6. Sarah Bern & Mackenzie Carson
Red Roses icons and 2025 World Cup champions. Together, they’re redefining what it means to be a power couple in modern rugby.
5. Mike Tindall & Zara Tindall
Rugby meets royalty — literally. From Cheltenham to the royal box, the Tindalls remain Britain’s best-known sporting sweethearts.
4. Abbie Ward & Dave Ward
England lock Abbie returned from motherhood to win the 2025 World Cup — alongside her coaching husband, Dave. The ultimate rugby family success story.
3. Andy Farrell & Colleen Farrell
Ireland’s head coach and his wife Colleen are rugby royalty — and the parents of England captain Owen Farrell. That’s sporting legacy on another level.
2. Antoine Dupont & Iris Mittenaere
France’s superstar scrum-half and former Miss Universe make one of the most glamorous couples in sport. Dupont’s brilliance meets Iris’s global fame — a blend of beauty, brains, and blue jerseys.
1. Marlie Packer & Rosie Galligan
World Cup winners, teammates, and trailblazers. The Red Roses duo top our list for their passion, pride, and power — both on and off the field. The ultimate rugby power couple of 2025.
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