From World Cup glory to growing families
South Africans will never forget 2023, the year the Springboks lifted the Rugby World Cup trophy for a record fourth time. The victory brought a wave of joy to the nation, but for many of our rugby heroes, celebrations didn’t end on the pitch.
Within months, Instagram feeds were full of baby scans, nursery reveals, and Bok wives showing off growing baby bumps. Fast forward to 2025, and a second wave of baby announcements is here. For several players, it’s not their first rodeo, baby number two is already on the way.
It seems the Bok family tree is expanding just as quickly as the team’s trophy cabinet.
Eben and Anlia Etzebeth: Growing their family
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Eben Etzebeth, one of South Africa’s most iconic locks, and his wife Anlia, the multi-talented actress and singer, welcomed their first child in January 2024. Barely a year later, the couple is preparing for their second little arrival.
In July, Anlia posted a glowing photo on Instagram, cradling her bump, a post that quickly racked up thousands of likes and congratulatory comments. Fans adore this power couple, and the news of a second baby has added even more love to their story.
Handre and Marise Pollard: Hunter gets a baby sister
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Fly-half Handre Pollard, whose cool boot helped seal South Africa’s 2023 triumph, has even more reason to smile at home. He and wife Marise became parents to baby boy Hunter in April 2024. Now, they’ve confirmed baby number two is on the way, this time a girl.
Marise shared a sweet post about “22 weeks, baby girl” while doing pilates by the fireplace. Fans gushed at how grounded and wholesome the Pollards remain, even as Handre continues to dominate world rugby.
Faf and Mine de Klerk: Double the cuteness
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If there’s one Bok who’s always had a larger-than-life presence, it’s scrumhalf Faf de Klerk. Famous for his flowing blond hair and fearless tackles, Faf’s softer side has been on display since he and wife Mine welcomed their first child in February 2024.
Now, they’re set to welcome another daughter this November. Mine announced the news with pink bows and baby gear, calling it a “joyful time.” Bok fans flooded her comments with love, with many joking that “Mini Faf 2.0” might one day inherit her dad’s fiery spirit.
Edwill and Nadine van der Merwe: First-time parents
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While many Bok households are preparing for baby number two, winger Edwill van der Merwe and his wife Nadine are celebrating their very first. Their July announcement, captioned “Half of me and half of you”—was met with hearts and tear emojis from fans.
For Edwill, who continues to shine as one of the younger stars of the squad, fatherhood will mark the beginning of a brand-new chapter both on and off the field.
The Bok family keeps winning
South Africans have always felt connected to the Springboks—not just as athletes, but as sons, husbands, and fathers. The growing Bok “baby squad” feels like another kind of victory: one rooted in love, family, and legacy.
On social media, fans are already joking about the 2045 Springbok lineup being filled with Pollards, Etzebeths, and de Klerks. Whether or not that prophecy comes true, one thing is certain: the Bok family bond is as strong as ever, and 2025 is shaping up to be another year of joy.
{Source: The South African}
Featured Image: X {@brieflyza}
