Wales' Women's Six Nations hopes have been dealt a significant setback with the news that star wing Lisa Neumann will miss the remainder of the tournament due to a hamstring injury.
The 32-year-old Harlequins player, who started every game for Wales in the 2025 Rugby World Cup, was forced off during the second half of Wales' narrow 24-19 opening-round defeat against Scotland last Saturday. The Welsh Rugby Union confirmed the injury will keep Neumann out of the competition, with a replacement to be announced shortly.
Neumann expressed her disappointment on social media, stating she was "gutted" by the development but remained optimistic, adding: "There will be a silver lining somewhere, I'm sure of it."
Wales head coach Sean Lynn acknowledged the significance of the loss, saying: "I thought she played really well, she's been playing well with Brython Thunder [in the Celtic Challenge]. Her physicality, the defence and the attack side of it, but we've got a competitive squad and I really trust the next individual coming in."
The injury creates selection challenges for Wales as they prepare to face table-topping France this Saturday at Cardiff Arms Park. Wing options include Jasmine Joyce, who was omitted from the matchday squad last weekend, Catherine Richards, and uncapped Nikita Prothero. Centers Carys Cox and Courtney Keight also possess the versatility to cover the wing position.
Wales' campaign continues against formidable opposition, with France arriving in Cardiff as the early tournament leaders following their opening victory.