Wales head coach Sean Lynn has injected fresh blood into his squad for their Women's Six Nations opener against Scotland this Saturday, naming two uncapped players for their international debuts.
Lock Jorja Aiono and wing Seren Singleton have earned their first Test call-ups after standout performances for Brython Thunder in the Celtic Challenge competition. Their inclusion highlights Wales' commitment to developing emerging talent as they seek to reverse recent fortunes in the championship.
"Jorja and Seren fully deserve this opportunity and have impressed in the Celtic Challenge and in camp," said Lynn. "Jorja has a real physicality and edge to her game that we need, and Seren's work-ethic and willingness to put her body on the line for the cause are the attributes we are looking for."
Kate Williams will captain the side in the absence of the injured Alex Callender, while former skipper Hannah Dallavalle is poised to earn her 70th cap—a significant milestone in her international career.
Notably absent from the matchday squad are experienced internationals Carys Phillips and Jasmine Joyce, signaling Lynn's willingness to make bold selection decisions as he enters his second year at the helm.
The starting lineup features an experienced back row with Williams joined by Bethan Lewis and Bryonie King. The front row sees Gwenllian Pyrs, Kelsey Jones, and Sisilia Tuipulotu reunited, while Gwen Crabb partners debutant Aiono in the second row.
Keira Bevan and Lleucu George form the half-back partnership, with Kayleigh Powell selected at full-back. The midfield combination of Carys Cox and Courtney Keight continues from the World Cup, while Lisa Neumann and Singleton occupy the wing positions.
Lynn has opted for a six-two split of forwards and backs on the bench, including seasoned campaigners Donna Rose, Georgia Evans, and the milestone-chasing Dallavalle.
Wales enter the tournament seeking their first Six Nations victory under Lynn's leadership, having endured consecutive wooden spoon finishes in the past two championships. The team also faced disappointment at last summer's World Cup, exiting at the pool stage.
The match kicks off at 16:40 BST on Saturday, marking the beginning of Wales' campaign to rebuild and compete in the prestigious tournament.