Wales name 14 uncapped players in 33-strong squad to face Barbarians

Wales head coach Sean Lynn has named a 33-player squad for the women’s team’s clash with the Barbarians at Allianz Stadium on Saturday 27 June, with 14 uncapped players in line to make their senior international debuts in the non-cap fixture.

Among those in contention for a first senior Wales appearance are teenage scrum-half Lily Hawkins, GB Sevens representative Hanna Tudor, and prop Crystal James. They are joined by established internationals Alisha and Jasmine Joyce, who last week confirmed they will return to play their domestic rugby in Wales from next season.

“This is a great opportunity for the players, coaches and staff, and no other nation has the chance to play again straight after the recent Six Nations campaign,” Lynn said. “It’s a real opportunity to continue to build our playing philosophy and to have a look at the exciting young talent now coming through our pathway and through the Celtic Challenge teams, Wales U21s and Wales U18s.”

Lynn was clear that selection for the matchday squad remains open. “All the players have been told there is a real opportunity to play against an experienced Barbarians side and not to assume that they will or will not play. The door is open for selection, and this is a good opportunity for our younger players to taste what is expected at international level.”

The squad is without players who featured in Sunday’s PWR semi-finals, which involved Gloucester Hartpury, Trailfinders Women, Saracens, and Exeter Chiefs. Gloucester Hartpury players are set to join the squad later in the week and will be assessed for involvement. Lynn acknowledged the absences but framed them as an opportunity: “This is a real chance to see what players we have and to build our strength-in-depth.”

The match forms part of a doubleheader at Allianz Stadium in West London, with the Wales men’s side facing the Barbarians first before the women’s teams take the field.