Sean Lynn has gone for evolution rather than revolution as he prepares for his opening Women’s Six Nations match in charge of Wales
Lynn has unveiled his first Test squad since stepping into the role of Wales head coach, setting the stage for an intriguing Six Nations campaign.
Hannah Jones will captain the side as they prepare to face Scotland in their tournament opener at Edinburgh’s Hive Stadium on Saturday.
She will be supported by vice-captain Keira Bevan, who resumes her half-back partnership with fly-half Lleucu George, fresh from her Premiership Women’s Rugby triumph with Gloucester-Hartpury.
Lynn has opted for a balanced blend of seasoned internationals and promising young talent, rewarding several standout performances from the recent Celtic Challenge.
Among the fresh faces in the starting line-up are props Maisie Davies, named MVP of the 2024 Women's Summer Series, and Jenni Scoble, both earning their first Test starts.
They will pack down alongside experienced hooker Carys Phillips to form a formidable front row.
In the second row, Alaw Pyrs also makes her full debut, pairing with Abbie Fleming, while the back row sees the dynamic trio of Kate Williams, Bethan Lewis, and Georgia Evans aiming to make their mark.
Lewis arrives in camp fresh from playing a pivotal role in Gloucester-Hartpury’s title-winning campaign.
The backline is a mix of pace and playmaking ability. Kayleigh Powell, known for her versatility across fly-half and full-back roles, partners Jones in midfield.
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Wales will also unleash an electric back three, with three-time GB Olympian Jasmine Joyce-Butchers lining up at full-back, flanked by wingers Lisa Neumann and Carys Cox.
Lynn has assembled an experienced bench, ensuring depth in key positions.
Gwenllian Pyrs, returning from shoulder surgery, will aim to take the field alongside her younger sister Alaw, while Kelsey Jones has fought back from a serious knee injury to take her place in the squad.
Gwen Crabb, another player who has battled back from injury, adds further strength to the forward replacements, while Meg Davies, Courtney Keight, and Nel Metcalfe provide cover in the backs.
Lynn said there is a sense of unity within the team and the excitement surrounding this new chapter.
“It’s been a hectic and busy week with a short turnaround but the excitement in the squad has been infectious,” he said.
“The message has been a simple one to the players, be you to be us and let’s build our identity, starting with Scotland away.
“The family is back together, and the players, coaches, and staff have all worked hard to create the right environment for everyone to flourish.
“We know Test matches with Scotland have been traditionally close and tight affairs, but we are looking forward to the challenge.
“We have selected a side full of experienced Welsh internationals who have hit real form for their clubs and have a mix of the exciting young talent who have impressed in the Celtic Challenge.”
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With Scotland currently ranked seventh in the world, Wales know they face a formidable opponent, but Lynn is determined to keep the focus on his own team’s ambitions.
“While we respect the threats Scotland will pose, we have underlined that this Test match is all about us and what we want to achieve as we build our performances in the tournament.”
As Wales prepare to step onto the field, they do so not only with a determination to compete but with a vision of forging a new identity under Lynn’s leadership—one built on unity, ambition, and a hunger for success.
Wales squad
Jasmine Joyce-Butchers; Lisa Neumann, Hannah Jones (capt), Kayleigh Powell, Carys Cox; Lleucu George, Keira Bevan; Maisie Davies, Carys Phillips, Jenni Scoble, Abbie Fleming, Alaw Pyrs, Kate Williams, Bethan Lewis, Georgia Evans.
Replacements: Kelsey Jones, Gwenllian Pyrs, Donna Rose, Gwen Crabb, Bryonie King, Meg Davies, Courtney Keight, Nel Metcalfe.
Scotland squad
Chloe Rollie; Rhona Lloyd, Emma Orr, Lisa Thomson, Francesca McGhie; Helen Nelson, Leia Brebner-Holden; Anne Young, Lana Skeldon, Elliann Clarke, Hollie Cunningham, Sarah Bonar, Rachel Malcolm (capt), Rachel McLachlan, Evie Gallagher.
Replacements: Elis Martin, Leah Bartlett, Christine Belisle, Adelle Ferrie, Alex Stewart, Jade Konkel, Caity Mattinson, Evie Wills.
