Three changes in Wales starting XV to face Ireland

Image source, Huw Evans Picture AgencyImage caption,

Saracens lock Georgia Evans is set for her 47th Wales appearance on Saturday

ByCeri Coleman-PhillipsBBC Sport Wales

Published59 minutes ago

Carys Cox and Hannah Dallavalle return to Wales' backline for the Six Nations trip to Ireland on Saturday (18:30 BST).

Cox missed the defeats by France and England after picking up a knock in training, while Dallavalle was a late withdrawal against the Red Roses.

Cox slots back into midfield alongside Courtney Keight, while Dallavalle, usually a centre herself, moves out to the wing in place of Seren Singleton.

Georgia Evans is the third starting change, taking her place in the second row in place of the injured Gwen Crabb.

It will be Evans' first start of the campaign and she is partnered by Branwen Metcalfe who trades positions with Jorja Aiono in the back row.

Nikita Prothero is set for a debut off the bench, while Natalia John could win her 50th cap.

Bethan Lewis will lead the side out at Affidea Stadium, with Kate Williams ruled out of the rest of the tournament with a leg injury.

Higgins returns for Ireland to face Wales
- Published42 minutes ago
Wales' rising star Aiono proud of Samoan heritage
- Published2 days ago
Wales' Metcalfe signs new Gloucester-Hartpury deal
- Published19 hours ago

Wales are winless in the tournament so far, with their most recent Six Nations victory coming against Italy in 2024.

And despite the Wooden Spoon looming large for a third consecutive year, they are encouraged by their four-try showing against world champions England last time out.

"We are excited to resume the Six Nations and build on the grit and resilience we showed against England," said Wales head coach Sean Lynn.

"We took another real step forward in building our playing style and team identity and we know we have to do the same against Ireland in their own backyard.

"This is a new-look Wales squad and it's all about sticking to our principles and process and focusing on what we want to do and expect from ourselves in the Test arena.

"Ireland are an ambitious side and will be hurting after their run of results in the tournament and we know they will be looking to make a statement in Belfast on Saturday."

Ireland v Wales

Guinness Women's Six Nations

Saturday 9 May, kick-off 18:30 BST

Affidea Stadium, Belfast

Watch on iPlayer Listen on Sounds

Watch every match live on BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport website and app; listen to match commentaries on BBC Radio 5 Live, Sports Extra and BBC Sounds; follow live text and match highlights online