Wales have been forced into a late change ahead of their crucial Women's Six Nations showdown with France this Saturday at Cardiff Arms Park. Former captain Hannah Dallavalle steps into the starting lineup at center, replacing the injured Carys Cox, who was a late withdrawal.
Dallavalle, 29, initially named among the substitutes, now carries a significant responsibility in the midfield. Her experience and leadership will be vital as Wales look to end a decade-long drought against the French. Adding to the potential for fresh energy, former Wales Under-20s captain Jenna de Vera has been added to the bench and could earn her senior international debut.
The task ahead is formidable. Head coach Sean Lynn's squad is not only seeking its first victory over France in ten years but also aiming to halt a six-match losing streak within the Six Nations championship. The match represents a major opportunity for Wales to build momentum and turn their campaign around.
With the stage set in Cardiff, all eyes will be on the reshuffled backline. Dallavalle's promotion is a classic next-player-up moment, testing the squad's depth and resilience against one of the world's top sides. Here are the confirmed lineups for the clash:
Wales: Powell; Singleton, Dallavalle, Keight, Joyce; George, Lockwood; Pyrs, Jones, Tuipulotu, Aiono, Crabb, Lewis, Williams (capt), King.
Replacements: Reardon, Davies, Rose, John, Metcalfe, Evans, Bevan, De Vera.
France: Barrat; Grando, Rousset, Vernier, Murie; Arbez, Bourdon Sansus; Brosseau, Lazarko, Khalfaoui, Zago, Fall Raclot, Berthoumieu, M Feleu (capt), L Champon.
Replacements: Riffonneau, Mwayembe, Deshaye, Soqeta, Escudero, A Chambon, T Feleu.
