George North’s final performance in a Welsh jersey culminated in a bittersweet moment, as his family shared touching snapshots following the emotional match.
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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.
“A liability” – Telegraph rank England’s five worst 2024 Six Nations players
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.
5 players who underperformed:
#5. Alex Coles – 6/10
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