Rachel Taylor will lead Wales’ women at the 2012 RBS 6 Nations after being named captain of Rhys Edwards’ squad.
The Cardiff Quins back row fought back from the potentially career-threatening injury she picked up during the 2010 World Cup and will skipper the side with prop Catrin Edwards unavailable for the tournament.
Seven uncapped players have made the squad – props Megan Yorke and Nia Jones, flanker Nia Davies, centres Rebecca De Filippo and Phillipa Tuttiett, winger Rhianydd Morgan and full-back Rosie Fletcher.
Elsewhere, experienced midfielder Clare Flowers, who has 69 caps to her name, has been chosen as a back row as she looks to continue her successful move to the pack.
It promises to be an exciting tournament for Wales as they host Italy at the Millennium Stadium and play England at Twickenham, and head coach Edwards is urging his side to make the most of it.
“It’s going to be a huge season for us but our focus has first got to be our first game away to Ireland,” said Edwards.
“It would be great if we can get a good start and build some momentum against Scotland before going to Twickenham and playing Italy at the Millennium Stadium.
“Playing at the Millennium Stadium is a huge opportunity for the team to play at the home of Welsh rugby in one of the best stadiums in the world.
“Rachel Taylor will be captain of the side and she will take us through to the next World Cup hopefully.
“She is someone who doesn’t hide from a challenge, she does all her talking on the pitch and her leadership skills stand her in good stead as a captain.”
Wales Women Six Nations squad:
Forwards Jenny Davies, Megan Yorke, Nia Jones, Caryl Thomas, Lowri Harries, Rhian Bowden, Shona Powell Hughes, Vicky Owens, Rachel Taylor (capt), Lisa Newton, Nia Davies, Sioned Harries, Jamie Kift, Clare Flowers, Sian Williams
Backs Amy Day, Laura Prosser, Naomi Thomas, Elen Evans, Rebecca De Filippo, Ceri Redman, Phillipa Tuttiett, Charlie Murray, Caryl James, Rhianydd Morgan, Mared Evans, Aimee Young, Rosie Fletcher
