Bevan starts at fly-half for first time as Wales name squad for WXV opener against South Africa

Keira Bevan will start at fly-half for Wales for the first time in her international career when Sean Lynn’s side face South Africa in their WXV Global Series opener at Cardiff Arms Park on Friday night.

The 83-cap Bristol Bears half-back, more commonly deployed at scrum-half, has been shifted to the No 10 jersey and will partner Seren Lockwood, while regular fly-half Lleucu George is named among the replacements in a 6-2 bench split.

Lynn explained the decision, saying Bevan had trained at fly-half throughout pre-season and brings considerable Test experience to the role. “Keira Bevan will make her first start at fly-half and has trained there during pre-season and has a wealth of experience in the Test match arena,” the head coach said.

Three players could earn their first Wales caps on Friday. Winger Amy Williams, who impressed in a pre-season win over the Barbarians, starts on the flank, while hooker Shanelle Williams and tighthead prop Elan Jones are both named on the bench. Lynn said Williams “fully deserves this opportunity and her first Wales cap” after her strong showing in pre-season.

The side will be co-captained by back-row pair Alex Callender of Harlequins and Kate Williams of Gloucester Hartpury, who carry 47 and 26 caps respectively.

Lynn acknowledged the physical challenge South Africa will pose. “South Africa pride themselves on their physicality and we know we have to match them in that area,” he said, adding that the squad had made significant strides in physical preparation over a competitive pre-season.

Lisa Neumann, Wales’ most-capped player in the starting XV with 52 appearances, lines up at fullback, while Courtney Keight and Freya Bell form the centre partnership. Georgia Evans and Branwen Metcalfe start in the second row, with Bryonie King at number eight.