Wales ready for toughest test of autumn campaign
WALES Women head coach Rowland Phillips says his side are ready for their toughest test of the autumn when they face Canada at Cardiff Arms Park on Saturday (11.30am).
Phillips has made five changes from the side that hammered Hong Kong 65-0 for the clash with the Canadians.
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 sees Kiera Bevan return at scrum-half.
Phillips said: “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.”
L Smyth (Ospreys); J Joyce (Scarlets), A Donnovan (Ospreys), A McComish (Dragons), L Neumann (RGC); R Wilkins (Blues), K Bevan (Ospreys); C Thomas (Dragons), C Phillips (capt, Ospreys), A Evans (Ospreys), S Lillicrap (Ospreys), M Clay (Ospreys), M Johnes (Blues), B Lewis (Dragons), S Harries (Scarlets) Reps: K Jones (Ospreys), C Hope (Ospreys), C Hale (Dragons), N John (Ospreys), G Crabb (Ospreys), F Lewis (Scarlets); H Jones (Scarlets) J Kavanagh (RGC).
Tickets: £5 adults, all concessions including students and senior tickets £1, available from Cardiff Blues ticket office.
Wales Women: