WALES SCRUM DOWN FOR BIG FRENCH TEST:
WALES Women coach Geraint Lewis has praised the influx of new talent into his team’s set-up as they prepare to face France in their third game of the Six Nations tomorrow (Cardiff Arms Park, 12noon).
Wing Caitlin Lewis and centre Megan Webb – cousin to former Wales U20 captain Tommy Reffell – have both been included in the XV and will earn their first Six Nations caps, while lock Georgia Evans has also been given her first Six Nations start against Les Bleues.
Lewis believes the new additions will be “excited” to play at Cardiff Arms Park this weekend and has a lot of faith in their ability.
“I think they’ll be very excited. There is no greater test for them than against the French especially I suppose and the Six Nations is always a special occasion,” Lewis said.
“I’m sure it will be a great thrill for them to have an opportunity on international weekend and we’re confident in their ability
“They’re coming into a familiar group of players from the autumn as well and I’m sure they’ll be up to the mark.”
Wales were beaten at home by Italy in their first Six Nations clash before suffering defeat by Ireland in horrendous conditions, but the team has seen a number of new additions link up with the senior squad over the last few games – starting with last year’s autumn internationals – and Lewis believes that although there is still some work to be done, they can push teams like France to the limit.
Lewis said: “It’s not easy and things take time. There is no magic wand in international sport.
“Playing against teams like France is what the girls aspire to as high performing rugby players.
“You want to test yourself against the best both as an individual and as a team.”
He added: “A number of the girls have improved a lot individually and collectively in this campaign.
“Although our first two results didn’t reflect it, I don’t think there’s been a massive gap between the sides we have played.
“Right now we just need to show a little bit more consistency and accuracy in our game and hopefully we can push France because like any team, they do have their frailties as well.”
Wales line-up: Ka Powell; C Lewis, M Webb, K Lake, L Neumann; R Wilkins, K Bevan; G Pyrs, K Jones, C Hale, G Evans, G Crabb, A Butchers, B Lewis, S Lillicrap (capt). Reps: M Kelly, C Hope, R Lewis, R Lock, M Johnes, F Lewis, C Keight, L Smyth.