On September 27, 2025, England\u2019s women\u2019s rugby team clinched the Women\u2019s Rugby World Cup title with a commanding 33\u201313 victory over Canada at Twickenham. Among the standout performers was 26-year-old prop\u00a0Hannah Botterman, whose strength and resilience were pivotal in securing the win.<\/p>\n
Join the\u00a0RUCK\u2019s WhatsApp community here<\/a>\u00a0and get the latest news sent straight to your messages.<\/p>\n Here are 10 things you should know about this rising rugby star:<\/p>\n 1. World Cup Glory at Twickenham<\/p>\n Hannah Botterman played a crucial role in England\u2019s World Cup triumph, contributing to the team\u2019s dominant scrummaging and defensive efforts. Her performance was instrumental in England\u2019s first World Cup title in 11 years, overcoming past final defeats in 2017 and 2022.<\/p>\n 2. A Family Legacy in Rugby<\/p>\n Rugby runs deep in Hannah\u2019s family. Her aunt was part of the England team that won the 1994 Rugby World Cup, and her uncle played for England A and Saracens F.C., inspiring her early passion for the sport.<\/p>\n 3. From Painter to Professional Rugby Player<\/p>\n Before turning professional, Hannah worked as a painter and decorator and a waitress. Her dedication to rugby led her to a full-time contract with the Rugby Football Union in the 2019\/20 season.<\/p>\n 4. Overcoming Injury to Shine<\/p>\n In the lead-up to the World Cup, Hannah suffered a back injury during England\u2019s final pool match against Australia. Despite initial fears of a serious setback, she made a remarkable recovery and was fit to start in the semi-final against France.<\/p>\n 5. A Key Player for Bristol Bears<\/p>\n Hannah currently plays for Bristol Bears in the Premier 15s league. Her performances have been instrumental in the team\u2019s success, showcasing her prowess in the front row.<\/p>\n 6. A Record-Breaking World Cup Final<\/p>\n The World Cup final against Canada was played in front of a record-setting crowd of 81,885 at Twickenham, highlighting the growing popularity and recognition of women\u2019s rugby.<\/p>\n 7. A Role Model for Aspiring Athletes<\/p>\n Hannah\u2019s journey from grassroots rugby to international stardom serves as an inspiration to young athletes, especially women, aspiring to make their mark in sports.<\/p>\n 8. A Personal Redemption Story<\/p>\n Having been part of the England squad that faced defeats in the 2017 and 2022 World Cup finals, Hannah\u2019s victory in 2025 represents a personal and collective redemption for her and the team.<\/p>\n 9. Celebrating Victory with Teammates<\/p>\n Following the World Cup win, Hannah and her teammates celebrated late into the night, with festivities continuing until 4 a.m. The celebrations included singing their reworked anthem \u201cEngland\u2019s One Fire\u201d on the pitch at Twickenham.<\/p>\n 10. Looking Ahead to Future Success<\/p>\n With her talent, resilience, and leadership, Hannah Botterman is poised to continue making significant contributions to England\u2019s rugby success in future international competitions.<\/p>\n EDITORS PICKS:<\/p>\n Meet the partners cheering on England during Rugby World Cup final<\/p>\n Taking on a Rugby World Cup is no easy task\u2014especially when it\u2019s on your home turf, in front of the roars of England\u2019s faithful. That\u2019s the challenge the Red Roses are facing as they prepare for the\u00a0World Cup final against Canada this weekend.<\/p>\n But while the spotlight shines on the pitch, there\u2019s another source of strength driving these athletes forward: the unwavering support of their partners. Behind every scrum, sprint, and soaring victory, there\u2019s a network of love, encouragement, and sacrifice.<\/p>\n So, before the final whistle blows, let\u2019s meet the squad behind the squad\u2014the partners who stand firmly in the Roses\u2019 corner.<\/p>\n Ellie Kildunne & Cameron Sommerville-Bailey<\/p>\n Star fullback Ellie Kildunne has long been one of England\u2019s most exciting rugby talents\u2014and her personal life has drawn interest too. She has been in a relationship with Cameron Sommerville-Bailey, a director at Complete Renovations, with the pair previously attending the World Rugby Awards together in 2024.<\/p>\n Recently, fans have noticed fewer pictures of the couple on social media, sparking speculation about whether their relationship has shifted. While some whispers suggest a split, others believe they remain together but are simply keeping things more private as Ellie\u2019s profile rises on the mainstream stage. Neither has commented publicly.<\/p>\n For now, Ellie seems fully focused on her rugby\u2014lighting up the pitch with her trademark flair as she looks to play a starring role in England\u2019s World Cup campaign.<\/p>\n Jess Breach & Archie White<\/p>\n There\u2019s not much public detail about their relationship, but the headlines say it all: Jess Breach shares life with former Harlequins flanker\u00a0Archie White, who created headlines by stepping away from the game last summer at just 27. <\/p>\n A bold pivot, and no doubt a steadying presence in Jess\u2019s corner.<\/p>\n CONTINUES ON PAGE TWO<\/a><\/p>\n Like this:<\/p>\n Like Loading…<\/p>\n