Oh what a night! From Prince Harry’s acting cameo to Wills and Kate’s very loved up display – with so much royal action going on it was easy to forget the Rugby World Cup’s first game was happening.
On Friday night Prince William, his wife Duchess Catherine and Prince Harry were out in full force as they attended the Rugby World Cup Opening Ceremony at Twickenham Stadium in London.
The young royals watched on intently throughout the nail-biting game, which saw England defeat Fiji 35-11.
Earlier in the evening, Prince Harry showed off his acting skills in a hilarious video, which was shown during the opening ceremony.
The skit explored the origins of ruby union, which is claimed to have started in 1823 when William Webb Ellis picked up a soccer ball and started running with it. In the clip, Harry and the former England captain Johnny Wilkinson play gardeners watching William run away with the ball.
“Don’t worry, Johnny, that’ll never take off,” Harry remarked to the famous fly-half. After the video, the Prince delivered a stirring speech to the 82, 000-strong crowd: “Rugby has changed dramatically in my lifetime. But it remains a game founded on a code of values.”
“Values which are as important today, both on and off the field of play, as they have ever been. Across the country, regardless of age, background or beliefs; this nation, which gave rugby to the world in 1823, will join together and celebrate the game like never before,” Harry mused.
Click through the gallery to check out all the highlights from the night!
Duchess Catherine, who earlier in the day had officially returned to royal duties following the birth of her second child, looked elegant in a cobalt blue trenchcoat.
So in love… Prince William and his wife of four years couldn’t keep their eyes off each other throughout the evening.
He’s a natural in front of the camera! Prince Harry starred in a hilarious video alongside former England Jonny Wilkinson depicting the origins of rugby union.
Warming up the crowd! Ahead of the evening’s first game, man-of-the-moment Prince Harry, and his dreamy beard, delivered a stirring speech.
“This evening marks the beginning of a celebration of rugby which I hope will inspire current players, those new to the game and future generations,” the 31-year-old said.
The trio were all sartorially in sync, wearing a dash of royal blue.
The parents of Prince George and Princess Charlotte were well and truly engrossed in the game, which saw England defeat Fiji 35-11.
Too cute! William and Catherine shared loads of laughs.
…Despite occasionally getting stressed out over the game.
After all the fun and games, no doubt the pair were looking forward to getting home to their beloved children.
Let the games begin! London’s Twickenham Stadium lights up.
