Wales captain Kate Williams will miss the remainder of the 2026 Women's Six Nations after sustaining a leg injury during the defeat by England last Saturday. The back-row forward was also forced off in the second half of the earlier loss to France, adding to head coach Sean Lynn's injury woes.
Wing Catherine Richards has also been ruled out of the final matches against Ireland and Italy with a serious knee injury. Flanker Bethan Lewis, who captained the side at Ashton Gate in Williams' absence, will continue to lead the team for the remaining two rounds.
There is positive news, however, with experienced centres Hannah Dallavalle and Carys Cox set to return for the trip to Belfast on 9 May. Dallavalle was a late withdrawal from the 62-24 defeat by England, while Cox has recovered from a knock in training.
Lynn has called up two under-21 players: centre Freya Bell, who made her senior debut as a replacement against England, and full-back Amy Williams.
Wales, who have lost their last eight Six Nations matches, will look to end their losing streak against Ireland and Italy.