The Ashes are back, and as England’s cricketers prepare for another crucial battle against Australia, support is coming from far beyond the boundary rope.
While Ben Stokes and his squad focus on reclaiming the famous Urn, a glamorous and accomplished group of wives and girlfriends are also making their presence felt Down Under.
England endured a challenging opening day after being dismissed for 172, with Australia closing on 123 for nine.
Yet optimism remains high, not only among fans but also among the partners who have travelled to Australia to support the team.
After the pandemic-era controversy in 2021, when players nearly withdrew over restrictions on partners attending, this year’s Ashes has seen a welcome return to normality — and the WAGs are once again part of the experience.
From childhood sweethearts to newlyweds, the partners of England’s cricket stars come from diverse professional backgrounds, including education, healthcare, marketing, and charity work.
Together, they form a close-knit support system that plays an often-overlooked role in the pressures of elite sport.
Ana Brumwell
Ana Brumwell has been in a relationship with England all-rounder Will Jacks since their teenage years. Now in her mid-twenties, Ana works in the NHS after graduating from the University of Bristol with a degree in Biomedical Sciences.
She frequently travels to support Jacks during overseas tours and has shared moments from trips to destinations including Dubai, New York, Valencia and India.
Alongside her career, Ana is also involved in charitable work supporting children’s education in the Philippines.
Hollie Potts
Hollie Potts married Durham and England fast bowler Matthew Potts in October, with the ceremony held at Woodhill Hall in Northumberland.
A primary school teacher by profession, Hollie met Matthew through mutual friends, and the couple now live together in Sunderland.
Their wedding was attended by several England teammates, highlighting the close bonds within the squad.
Clare Stokes
Clare Stokes has been by Ben Stokes’ side since 2010, long before he became one of England’s most influential cricket captains.
The primary school teacher married Stokes in 2017 and the couple share two children, Layton and Libby. Clare has openly described herself as a “cricket widow” due to the demands of international sport.
In 2024, she and her family endured a traumatic burglary at their County Durham home, an incident Stokes later addressed publicly, emphasising the emotional impact on his family.
Paige Ogborne
Paige Ogborne met England opener Ben Duckett in 2021. While she has experience as a model and influencer, Paige’s main career focus is marketing.
She currently works as Head of Digital and Performance Marketing at the Financial Times.
The couple welcomed a daughter, Margot, in July 2024 and married shortly after at Hedsor House in Buckinghamshire.
Lucy Lyles
Lucy Lyles has been in a long-term relationship with batsman Harry Brook, with the couple announcing their engagement last autumn.
A business and management graduate from the University of Manchester, Lucy is actively involved in charitable initiatives related to education and mental health awareness.
Carrie Root
Carrie Root, originally from Yorkshire, met former England captain Joe Root while working at a bar in Headingley.
The couple married in 2018 and are parents to two children, Alfie and Isabella. Carrie is often seen supporting Joe at major tournaments and is regarded as a grounding influence in his career.
Sarah Wood
Sarah Wood, wife of fast bowler Mark Wood, shares her husband’s love of cricket and plays for a local team herself.
A teacher by profession, Sarah met Mark at Ashington Cricket Club.
The couple married in 2018 and welcomed their son, Harry, the following year.
As the Ashes unfold, England’s WAGs remain an integral part of the story — offering stability, encouragement, and a reminder that behind every elite athlete is a personal support network helping them cope with the demands of international sport.