Wales Women head coach Rowland Phillips is hoping to build momentum ahead of the 2019 Six Nations and has made five changes for his side’s final Test of the autumn – against Canada on Saturday.
The match, kicking off at 11:30am at Cardiff Arms Park, will see the front row of Caryl Thomas, Carys Phillips and Amy Evans return, along with Siwan Lillicrap who partners Mel Clay in the second row. The only change in the backline from the team that beat Hong Kong 65-0 last Friday sees Keira Bevan return at scrum-half. Buy tickets to watch Wales Women v Canada here
On announcing his team, Phillips commented: “There’s a huge excitement in the camp about representing Wales against one of the best female teams in the world.
“We lost twice to Canada in the World Cup last year but we have taken positive steps to improve following that experience. I know our conditioning and skills are better and this is an outstanding opportunity to test ourselves and get a clear indication of where we lie as a team.
“We have used a small squad during these November games which has allowed us to expose a number of players to international rugby and build momentum going into the Six Nations.
“We knew South Africa would be physical, we were pleased with the rugby we put together against Hong Kong, but Canada was always going to be the toughest test. Having watched them against England on the weekend, they pose threats across the pitch. They are big athletes and play a fast game with width.
“To get better, we want to play the top teams and we’re looking forward to this challenge.”
Wales Women team to face Canada:
15. Lauren Smyth, 14. Jasmine Joyce, 14. Alecs Donovan, 12. Alicia McComish, 11. Lisa Neumann, 10. Robyn Wilkins, 9. Keira Bevan; 1. Caryl Thomas, 2. Carys Phillips (capt), 3. Amy Evans, 4. Siwan Lillicrap, 5. Mel Clay, 6. Manon Johnes, 7. Bethan Lewis, 8. Sioned Harries
Replacements 16. Kelsey Jones, 17. Cara Hope, 18. Cerys Hale, 19. Natalia John, 20. Gwen Crabb, 21. Ffion Lewis, 22. Hannah Jones, 23. Jess Kavanagh
