England's rugby stars Marlie Packer and Rosie Galligan have shared joyous news, revealing they are expecting their first child together this autumn.
The couple, both key players in England's Women's Rugby World Cup victory last year, announced the pregnancy through a heartfelt social media post that read: "Baby Packer due October 2026 and your mummies and big brother can't wait to meet you."
Galligan, 27, who plays lock, is due to give birth in October. The engaged pair are teammates at both the international level with the Red Roses and domestically with Saracens.
"This is such an exciting new chapter for us," the couple expressed in their announcement.
Packer, 36, brings previous parenting experience to their growing family, having a five-year-old son named Oliver from a previous relationship. She also boasts an impressive rugby career that includes winning the World Cup with England back in 2014.
Galligan becomes the fourth England women's rugby player to announce a pregnancy this year, joining captain Zoe Stratford and Bristol teammates Lark Atkin-Davies and Abbie Ward in this special life chapter.
Both athletes have distinguished international careers. Galligan contributed to England's 2022 Grand Slam Six Nations triumph and has earned 31 Test caps, while Packer has made 112 appearances for her country since her 2008 debut.
The pregnancy announcement comes as the couple continues to balance their professional rugby commitments with their personal lives, marking another milestone in what has been a remarkable year for England's women's rugby community.