Cricket isn’t just a contest of bat and ball—it’s a life-altering journey stuffed with private sacrifices, help techniques, and unsung heroes past the boundary ropes. As South Africa triumphed within the ICC World Take a look at Championship (WTC) Closing 2025, defeating a formidable Australian facet and lifting their first ICC title in 27 years, the victory was not theirs alone. It additionally belonged to the ladies who walked each step of the journey alongside them—the wives and girlfriends (WAGs) of the champions.
Whereas the Proteas lastly buried the ‘chokers’ tag that had adopted them for many years, their companions stood as silent warriors—cheering, supporting, and holding fort in the course of the highs and lows of an extended, arduous cricketing marketing campaign. From businesswomen and dancers to athletes and artists, these ladies carry tales of power, love, and inspiration that deserve the highlight.
Meet the wives and girlfriends of Proteas gamers
Temba Bavuma and Phila Lobi
Temba Bavuma, who captained South Africa to one among its most iconic victories, attracts power from his spouse, Phila Lobi. Married since 2018, Phila might stay out of the general public eye, however her presence in Bavuma’s journey as a resilient chief has been invaluable. She represents the emotional calm behind the person who led with poise on the largest stage of all.
Aiden Markram and Nicole Danielle O’Connor
Aiden Markram, who performed a significant position within the Take a look at Championship win with a shocking hundred, shares his life with Nicole O’Connor—a businesswoman and baker with a philanthropic edge. Because the founding father of her personal enterprise and a key contributor to ‘Abba Home,’ Nicole brings ambition and coronary heart to their relationship, echoing Aiden’s dedication to cricket.
Keshav Maharaj and Lerisha Munsamy
Spinner Keshav Maharaj is married to Lerisha Munsamy, a Kathak dancer whose grace and self-discipline replicate in each her artwork and their relationship. With Indian heritage woven into their lives, the duo blends tradition and dedication seamlessly. Lerisha is usually noticed cheering for Keshav, her vitality matching his on-field depth.
Marco Jansen and Taneal Baptiste
The towering pacer Marco Jansen finds inspiration in his girlfriend, Taneal Baptiste—knowledgeable swimmer with aggressive grit. Their shared love for sports activities and mutual understanding of athletic calls for has helped form a powerful and supportive relationship. Her unwavering perception has guided Marco by means of his evolving cricket profession.
Additionally READ: Followers go gaga as South Africa raise first-ever WTC title with Aiden Markram’s epic 136 towards Australia at Lord’s
Kagiso Rabada and Sho Madjozi
Speedster Kagiso Rabada’s relationship with award-winning rapper Sho Madjozi is likely one of the most high-profile among the many squad. Identified for fusing music with tradition, Sho can be an advocate for social justice. Collectively, they embody the union of success, creativity, and resilience. Regardless of juggling international schedules, their bond stands agency, inspiring followers past the cricket discipline.
Wiaan Mulder and Justine Webber
All-rounder Wiaan Mulder has been vocal in regards to the encouragement he receives from his spouse Justine Webber. Whether or not he’s battling it out within the center or recovering from accidents, Justine has been a relentless—cheering him on and grounding him in moments of doubt. Their relationship is a testomony to shared goals and mutual backing.
David Bedingham and Jenna Van Niekerk
David Bedingham, a rising star in South African cricket, is usually seen sharing glimpses of his life along with his girlfriend Jenna Van Niekerk. An animal lover, Jenna ceaselessly posts about their canine, and her cheerful, grounded nature provides pleasure to Bedingham’s cricketing journey. Their candid on-line moments present a refreshing slice of life past cricket.
Preserving it Personal: The reserved stars
Whereas some cricketers bask within the public glow of their relationships, others choose to take care of privateness. Tony De Zorzi, Tristan Stubbs, Corbin Bosch, Ryan Rickelton, Kyle Verreynne, and Lungi Ngidi have chosen to maintain their private lives away from the media’s gaze. Their silence speaks of focus and a want to be recognized purely for his or her performances.
As South Africa lifted the WTC 2025 trophy and at last solid off a long time of heartbreak, it’s vital to acknowledge the total image of triumph. These ladies—whether or not seen within the stands or quietly supporting from afar—have performed their very own innings on this historic win. Along with the gamers, they’ve rewritten South African cricket’s legacy, not simply in silverware however in spirit.
Additionally READ: SA vs AUS: Aiden Markram turns into third batter to realize a historic feat in WTC historical past