Following a two-week break, the Women’s Six Nations resumes this weekend with Ireland hosting Wales in Saturday’s late kick-off (18:30 BST). Both sides suffered heavy defeats in round three against tournament favourites England and France, though Wales left the field far happier.
Ireland traveled to Clermont aiming to avenge their narrow World Cup quarter-final loss to Les Bleues, but returned empty-handed after failing to convert chances. Wales conceded the usual 60 points against England, yet posted their highest score ever against the Red Roses, crossing for four tries and securing a bonus point.
Ireland have stated they will target their two remaining home games to solidify their status as the best of the rest, while Wales simply need a win to avoid a third consecutive Wooden Spoon and a ninth straight tournament defeat. On paper, Ireland are clear favourites, but Wales showed grit against England, proving they are no pushovers. If they can stay competitive, it promises to be a compelling contest.
**Team News**
Despite the disappointment of round three, Ireland have kept faith with their squad, making just one starting change. Experienced centre Eve Higgins returns in place of Nancy McGillivray. Uncapped back Niamh Gallagher is set to make her senior debut from the bench after impressing for Ireland Under-21s.
Wales have made three starting changes. Carys Cox returns from injury to the midfield, while Hannah Dallavalle—usually a centre—is named on the wing, replacing Seren Singleton. Gwen Crabb, who leads the tournament for turnovers, took a knock in training and is rested as a precaution. This opens the door for Georgia Evans to make her first start of the campaign in the second row alongside Branwen Metcalfe, with Jorja Aiono shifting to the back row. Nikita Prothero is set to become Wales’s ninth debutant from the bench, while Natalia John is in line for her 50th cap.
**Views from the Camps**
Wales head coach Sean Lynn said: “Every game in this tournament has seen us build another layer of the team we aspire to be, and we expect to come away from Ireland having done the same. Morale and confidence are really high; everybody will be looking for a win, but it’s about making sure we are performing. Ireland have a very physical pack, they work hard, and Dannah O’Brien has a very good kicking game. If we can stop them from going forward, we put them out of their comfort zone.”
Ireland assistant coach Alan O’Connor commented: “There was a lot of good from that French game, so we’re just trying to build on that. The first half was really good—we got close to the line around 12 times—but we just weren’t clinical enough. Building on that, we need to be more clinical. Wales’ strength is probably the set-piece. They are good at the breakdown, so we need to make sure we are on the money there.”
**Commentator’s Note**
Phil Steele, a rugby commentator with extensive experience covering Welsh rugby, noted: “There’s a lovely old Irish saying that oft…”