George North's Olympian wife pays emotional tribute to retiring Wales legend

Last Wednesday, the rugby world was taken aback by the announcement from the 31-year-old that the Six Nations clash against Italy would mark his 121st and last cap for Wales.

North, a revered figure in the sport, is set to embark on a new chapter with French Pro D2 team Provence, bidding farewell to Ospreys for fresh challenges across the English Channel.

Witnessing this significant moment were North's wife and their two children, present to share in the poignant occasion and to absorb the reverberating response of the crowd as one of rugby's great international careers drew to a close.

Reflecting on Instagram, North's wife, former Olympic cyclist Becky James, expressed their pride, writing, "We're so proud of you."

Becky herself boasts an impressive sporting career, having excelled in cycling, culminating in silver medals in keirin and sprint events at the Rio 2016 Olympics.

Her journey to success commenced with bronze and silver triumphs at the 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi, followed by a European bronze in the 2013 team sprint. Further accolades include two bronze medals at the World Championships in 2014 and 2016.

Retiring in 2017, James ventured into entrepreneurship, establishing her own baking business. In 2019, she and North tied the knot, marking the culmination of a relationship that blossomed eight years earlier through a mutual acquaintance.

Telegraph Sport conducted a thorough assessment of each England player's performance during the Six Nations, with criticism aimed at several individuals.

One player was labeled a liability, while another is advised to come to terms with the idea that their peak playing days may be behind them.

Coles is a member of the Premiership outfit Northampton Saints, a club he has been associated with since the age of 13. His journey with the Saints began when he joined their senior academy in the summer of 2017, eventually making his senior debut in November of the following year.

With versatility spanning across the second and back rows, Coles has represented his country from U16 level all the way through to U20, featuring prominently in the U20 Six Nations and the World Rugby U20 Championship.

His impressive performances earned him a call-up to the England senior Men’s squad ahead of the 2022 Autumn Nations Series, where he marked his debut in their narrow 30-29 defeat against Argentina.

They wrote: "A cumulative 15 minutes of action, but it is telling that England opted for no lock replacement in their final two matches."

RUCK RATING: 6.25/10

Stuart, a native of London, received his education at Farleigh School in Andover and later attended Radley College in Oxfordshire. His rugby journey commenced at the age of eight, where he honed his skills both at school and with Salisbury RFC.

Stuart's prowess on the field earned him representation for England at various age grade levels, notably contributing to the team's triumph over Ireland in the final of the 2016 World Rugby U20 Championship. His ascent continued when he received his first call-up to the senior squad in 2020, debuting as a replacement for Kyle Sinckler during the opening round of the Six Nations. Subsequently, he earned his maiden start in November of the same year, featuring in England’s Autumn Nations Cup clash against Georgia.

In 2023, Stuart was a pivotal member of Steve Borthwick’s squad that journeyed to France for the Rugby World Cup, further solidifying his status as a promising talent in English rugby.

They wrote: "Made the bench spot his own but has never quite translated his Bath form to Tests. New Zealand could be make or break."

RUCK RATING: 5.2/10

Care's illustrious international journey commenced in 2008 with his England debut against New Zealand, marking the beginning of a remarkable career that has seen him amass over 100 caps for his country.

Originating from Leeds, Care initially ventured into rugby before transitioning to Harlequins in 2006, where he continued to flourish. His commitment to the sport has seen him represent England across nine levels, spanning from the grassroots through to the elite ranks, including a notable stint in the sevens code. Notably, he clinched a Commonwealth Games silver medal during his tenure in sevens, further adding to his diverse and distinguished rugby resume.

They wrote: "Murrayfield hinted that Care’s best days as an England starter might be over but his composure off the bench deserves plaudits."

RUCK RATING: 6.1/10

Dingwall's rugby journey began at Cambridge RUFC, where he first honed his skills before catching the eye of Northampton Saints at the age of 14. His talent and dedication led him to sign with the Senior Academy in 2017.

The pinnacle of Dingwall's professional career arrived when he made his debut in a Premiership fixture against Leicester Tigers in 2018, marking a significant milestone in his journey.

Internationally, Dingwall initially represented Scotland at the U18 level before switching allegiance to England U20s in 2018. His leadership qualities shone through when he was appointed captain of the England squad for the 2019 World Rugby U20 Championship.

Dingwall's progression continued as he earned his first call-up to the senior England squad in January 2020, signifying a notable achievement in his burgeoning career. Recently, head coach Steve Borthwick recognised Dingwall's capabilities once again, recalling him ahead of the Guinness Men’s Six Nations 2024 campaign.

They wrote: "At times a liability, is it time for England to move on? Perhaps, but Daly’s aerial prowess is unquestionable."

RUCK RATING: 6.25/10

Daly's ascent to the England squad for the 2016 Six Nations was propelled by his standout performances in high-stakes encounters, coupled with impressive seasons at Wasps.

His debut as a starter for England saw him making a memorable impact with a remarkable left-footed penalty against South Africa in November 2016, followed by his maiden Test try against Fiji the following week.

Daly's journey continued to flourish as he earned selection for the 2017 British & Irish Lions tour to New Zealand, where he featured prominently, starting all three Tests on the left wing against the formidable All Blacks.

He further solidified his place in English rugby history as part of the squad that reached the final of the 2019 Rugby World Cup. Daly's prowess on the field earned him a spot in the 2021 Lions tour to South Africa, where he showcased his skills in the first two Tests.

Having been part of the England squad for the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France, Daly's talent was once again recognized as he was recalled by Steve Borthwick ahead of the Guinness Men’s Six Nations 2024 campaign.

They wrote: "At times a liability, is it time for England to move on? Perhaps, but Daly’s aerial prowess is unquestionable."