Wales must build on encouraging home WXV Global Series performances when they play back-to-back Tests in Japan. Humidity and rain in Tokyo could suit the hosts' well-drilled maul, a traditional strength Wales still hold in reserve, although they showed signs of a more expansive style last month.
The half-back partnership of Seren Lockwood and Keira Bevan, which stretched South Africa, has been restored. Nel Metcalfe, a livewire highlight at full-back in the 2025 World Cup, returns from injury on the wing, and her sister Branwen packs down alongside Jorja Aiono in a mobile second row. Coach Sean Lynn has stressed fitness and wants his side to possess an all-court game. "All successful teams need to have that adaptability," said the former Gloucester-Hartpury boss. "We're looking to play this expansive game but have the driving maul, the set-piece, a strong pick-and-go game."
Japan lost 55-21 to Italy and were beaten twice by Ireland, 31-24 in the WXV Global Series and 43-19 in an extra Test. The Sakura Fifteen give starts to uncapped number eight Savannah Bodman and centre Sophie Akiko Langford, with fly-half Chihiro Ito set for a debut from the bench. Lynn said Japan "ran Ireland close in the first Test" and warned his side not to take them lightly.
The fixture is part of a double-header marking the centenary of the Japan Rugby Football Union. Co-captain Kate Williams, Callender and King form a balanced back row, and Wales won 19-10 when the teams met in South Africa two years ago. Callender, set to win her 50th cap, said Wales must stick to their processes around defence, attack and their DNA. Doing that twice in Japan could see Wales hunting down South Africa, Scotland and Italy in the world rankings.
Source: BBC Sport · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing