Seren Lockwood Ruled Out Following Failed Head Injury Assessment
Seren Lockwood is out. The fly-half has failed a head injury assessment and misses Wales’ second WXV Global Series match against the USA. She went off in the first half of Wales’ opening WXV victory over South Africa after failing a head injury assessment.
Wales confirmed the news on Tuesday. Head coach Sean Lynn is managing her recovery through World Rugby’s return to play protocols. The Seren Lockwood Wales rugby injury dominates team news before Saturday’s clash with the USA.
Sean Lynn Confirms Return-to-Play Protocols for Lockwood
Lynn was clear on why she came off. “It’s always sad to see an individual coming off, but the HIA is great to have on board, we’re looking after her,” he said.
He confirmed Lockwood will not be considered for selection this weekend. “She’s not going to be available this weekend, but I’m super excited to see the half-back combination that we’ve got this week,” Lynn said. Her return depends on completing every remaining stage of the protocol.
Lleucu George and Keira Bevan Reshuffle Wales Backline
The Seren Lockwood Wales rugby injury forces a reshuffle. Lleucu George returns at fly-half for Saturday’s match against the USA. Keira Bevan drops back to scrum-half, having featured in our preview of Keira Bevan starting at fly-half before the South Africa win.
Lynn sees this as a positive change, not a forced fix. His remark on the half-back combination shows real faith in George and Bevan. He expects them to run the USA game from the start.
Carys Cox Returns as Nel Metcalfe Targets Japan Tour
There is better news elsewhere. Carys Cox has returned to full fitness after summer knee surgery. She is available again at wing and centre. “Carys has been superb in rehab, she feels fitter, faster and stronger,” Lynn said.
He was equally enthusiastic about her impact on the pitch. “She always brings a smile, she’s always confident and I love her athleticism. She will always beat that first defender and the way we are playing now, she’s going to get some ball in hand,” Lynn said.
Nel Metcalfe will miss the USA match. She continues her rehabilitation this week. Lynn is targeting her return for next month’s two-Test tour of Japan. “Nel is progressing really well with her rehab, we saw her today in some rugby elements, so fingers crossed we will be seeing her in Japan,” he said. Full details of Lynn’s comments were carried in the BBC Sport report.
