Steve Borthwick's men returned to the Allianz Stadium with a statement, reviving their iconic 2019 Rugby World Cup haka response.
As the All Blacks’ war dance began, the Red Roses—and key forwards Henry Pollock and Jamie George—formed the famous ‘V’ formation at the halfway line, a bold echo of the semi-final showdown in Japan.
Under Steve Borthwick’s guidance, England didn’t just stand tall—they
owned the moment.
The side’s composure and tactical discipline reflected months of preparation, with the forwards ready to absorb pressure and strike at the right moment.
Pollock and George spearheaded the response, ensuring England met New Zealand’s challenge head-on.
Fans were quick to react on social:
The echoes of Japan 2019 are alive in this squad. England’s blend of history, heart, and tactical nous is clear: the challenge has been accepted, and the stage is set.
From business ventures and endorsements to philanthropy and royal connections, these power couples exemplify success in every arena.
Here’s a look at the top 10 wealthiest rugby couples in 2025, ranked from the humblest fortunes to the largest bank accounts.
Wealthiest Rugby Couples:
10. David Pocock & Emma Palandri – £1.5 million
Former Australian rugby star David Pocock and his wife, Emma Palandri, have diversified their wealth through post-rugby careers. Pocock is now an Australian senator, while Palandri co-founded social enterprise projects focusing on sustainable development.
9. Nigel Owens & Barrie Jones-Davies – £2 million
Nigel Owens, Welsh former rugby referee, is a motivational speaker, commentator, and farmer. Together with his partner, Barrie Jones-Davies, they’ve cultivated a modest fortune built on Owens’ post-rugby ventures.
8. Owen Farrell & Georgie Farrell – £3 million
England captain Owen Farrell and his wife, Georgie Farrell, an events manager, have accumulated a solid fortune through rugby salaries and personal business ventures.
7. Bryan Habana & Janine Viljoen – £8 million
South African rugby legend Bryan Habana and entrepreneur Janine Viljoen have grown their wealth through sports, media appearances, and business initiatives.
From business ventures and endorsements to philanthropy and royal connections, these power couples exemplify success in every arena.
6. Siya & Rachel Kolisi – £10 million
World Cup-winning captain Siya Kolisi and Rachel Kolisi, co-founder of the Kolisi Foundation, are currently navigating a divorce. Their combined wealth stems from rugby, endorsements, and philanthropic ventures that uplift underprivileged communities.
5. Dan & Honor Carter – £12 million
All Blacks fly-half Dan Carter, three-time World Rugby Player of the Year, and his wife, Honor Carter, former Black Ferns hockey player, have built a fortune through rugby and business ventures.
4. Richie & Gemma McCaw – £15 million
Two-time Rugby World Cup champion Richie McCaw and his wife Gemma McCaw, former Black Sticks hockey player, have amassed wealth through sports, endorsements, and philanthropic work.
3. Jonny Wilkinson & Shelley Jenkins – £20 million
England hero Jonny Wilkinson and his wife Shelley Jenkins have grown their fortune post-retirement through media appearances, business ventures, and strategic endorsements.
2. Sonny Bill & Alana Williams – £22 million
Versatile athlete Sonny Bill Williams and Alana Williams, former model and businesswoman, have diversified wealth from rugby, rugby league, boxing, and endorsements.
1. Mike & Zara Tindall – £25 million
Mike Tindall, former England captain, and Zara Tindall, Olympic equestrian and granddaughter of Queen Elizabeth II, top the list. Mike enjoys a successful media career, while Zara remains active in equestrian sports and business, making them rugby’s wealthiest power couple.