They’ve gone from teenage sweethearts to one of England rugby’s power couples.
Anlia and Eben Etzebeth are embracing parenthood for the first time! The couple joyfully announced the birth of their baby girl on Tuesday, January 16, sharing a heartwarming peek of their newborn via Instagram.
Join the RUCK’s WhatsApp community here and get the latest news sent straight to your messages. “No Words Will Ever Be Able to Describe the Feeling”
“16•01•24 No words will ever be able to describe the feeling. Thank you lord,” Anlia wrote in her touching caption.
A Memorable Pregnancy Reveal
The couple made waves last October with their pregnancy announcement at none other than the Stade de France.
The moment was iconic: the Springboks had just secured a historic fourth Rugby World Cup title, and the stadium was alive with celebration. October 29 was a double celebration for Eben, who also turned 32 that day.
Anlia commemorated the event by sharing a snap of them standing on the pitch, draped in green, and posing alongside the shining Webb Ellis Cup.
“BLESSINGS Upon BLESSINGS!”
“BLESSINGS upon BLESSINGS! Thank you Lord. Well done Bokke & HAPPY BIRTHDAY my liefste man,” she posted, brimming with joy.
A Love Story Sealed in Franschhoek
The lovebirds tied the knot in February 2023 at the picturesque La Paris Estate in Franschhoek. The Citizen reported that the dreamy venue witnessed Eben and Anlia exchange their vows in a setting that matched their fairy-tale romance. Before they crossed paths in Melkbosstrand, north of Cape Town, Anlia was already a star in her own right.
Anlia’s Stellar Career
Before meeting Eben, Anlia had
made a name for herself on screen, notably in the series
Getroud Met Rugby, where she portrayed Sasha Richter. Her talents extend beyond acting; Anlia is also celebrated for her incredible singing voice.
Rugby fans will recognise her from numerous occasions when she led the national anthem at home games, her angelic voice filling the stadiums and leaving a lasting impression.
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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!!!!"
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!”
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.”