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Maher is the most followed social media star in rugby union with 4.5m Instagram followers and 3.2m followers on Tiktok and could be an attraction to Premiership Women's Rugby
American Olympic bronze medallist Ilona Maher could appear in this season's Premiership Women's Rugby after the Rugby Football Union said it had supported her visa application.
In a coup for the English women's top-flight, sevens star Maher is the most followed social media star in rugby union with 4.5m Instagram followers and 3.2m followers on Tiktok.
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16:32 - 28.11.2024
'We will remember this forever'- Ilona Maher pens emotional note after missing DWTS crown
Ilona Maher reflects on her DWTS journey, sharing gratitude and pride after an incredible season ending as runner-up.
The RFU told BBC Sport it has provided governing body endorsement for Maher in support of her visa application to play in England.
It remains to be seen which club she will sign for, but she has reportedly, external been in talks with both Bristol Bears and Gloucester-Hartpury.
Having recently finished as runner-up in the US version of Strictly Come Dancing - Dancing with the Stars - it means the 28-year-old could join a club and resume her XVs career ahead of the 2025 Rugby World Cup.
16:32 - 28.11.2024
'We will remember this forever'- Ilona Maher pens emotional note after missing DWTS crown
Ilona Maher reflects on her DWTS journey, sharing gratitude and pride after an incredible season ending as runner-up.
On November 29, Maher teased her return to rugby by posting a highlights reel on her Instagram, external with a subtitled question: "Is it about time I get back to the pitch?"
Maher is established in sevens but only has two caps for the USA XVs side from 2021.
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