Wales women’s national rugby union team head coach Sean Lynn has named his side for the opening round of the Guinness Women’s Six Nations.
Lynn has handed debuts to two players as Wales begin a new chapter in Cardiff.
Lock Jorja Aiono and wing Seren Singleton will both make their first Test starts at the Principality Stadium, while Kate Williams leads the side as captain.
The selection reflects Lynn’s intention to reset the squad, with a blend of new caps and established internationals as Wales look to avoid a third consecutive wooden spoon.
Fresh Faces Signal New Direction
Lynn has reshaped both his coaching group and playing squad in recent months, and this team selection underlines that shift.
Aiono earns her opportunity after impressing for Brython Thunder in the Celtic Challenge, where her work rate and physicality stood out. She partners Gwen Crabb in the second row.
Singleton also steps in on the wing following consistent performances at domestic level, offering pace and attacking threat out wide.
“We’ve got new faces and new voices,” Lynn said. “Now it’s about making sure we deliver consistent performances.”
He highlighted Aiono’s impact in particular.
“Her work rate and what she brings physically stand out. That’s the standard we need across the team.”
On Singleton, he added: “She’s earned this chance through her performances. We’re excited to see what she can bring.”
Pack Built on Physical Edge
The forward pack combines experience with emerging talent.
Aiono and Crabb sit behind a front row of Gwenllian Pyrs, Kelsey Jones and Sisilia Tuipulotu, a unit expected to provide a strong platform at set piece.
In the back row, Williams starts at openside flanker and captains the side, alongside Bethan Lewis and number eight Bryonie King.
Williams has taken on sole captaincy duties for the tournament following an injury to co-captain Alex Callender.
“It’s been different, but I’ve enjoyed it,” Williams said. “I feel more confident in the role, and it’s an exciting challenge.”
Backline Balances Control and Threat
In the backs, Keira Bevan and Lleucu George combine at half-back, offering control and game management.
Courtney Keight and Carys Cox line up in midfield, while Singleton joins Lisa Neumann and Kayleigh Powell in the back three.
Williams believes the squad has already made progress in camp.
“We’ve focused on connecting as a group and building that alignment quickly,” she said. “There’s more physicality and edge in how we’re training.”
Performance First for Wales
Despite external pressure on results, Wales have placed their focus firmly on performance.
“It’s important to get a win early, but we want to build something,” Williams said. “If we get the performances right, the results will follow.”
Lynn echoed that approach, describing the campaign as a “fresh start” for the squad.
He also acknowledged the challenge posed by Scotland, highlighting key players including Rachel Malcolm and Emma Wassell.
“They’re a strong side with good leaders,” he said. “We know what they bring.”
Principality Stage Set for Opener
The match will take place at the Principality Stadium, offering Wales the chance to perform on one of rugby’s biggest stages.
“It’s special to play there,” Williams said. “A big crowd makes a huge difference. We want as many people there as possible.”
With new faces, a new structure and a clear focus on performance, Wales now look to turn a fresh start into a strong opening statement.
Wales Team to Face Scotland
15. Kayleigh Powell
14. Seren Singleton
13. Carys Cox
12. Courtney Keight
11. Lisa Neumann
10. Lleucu George
9. Keira Bevan
1. Gwenllian Pyrs
2. Kelsey Jones
3. Sisilia Tuipulotu
4. Jorja Aiono
5. Gwen Crabb
6. Bethan Lewis
7. Kate Williams (c)
8. Bryonie King
Replacements: Molly Reardon, Maisie Davies, Donna Rose, Alaw Pyrs, Georgia Evans, Branwen Metcalfe, Seren Lockwood, Hannah Dallavalle
