Alisha Joyce is back in Wales' Six Nations squad just five months after giving birth to son Ralphie. The 28‑year‑old Bristol Bears flanker appears among the replacements for Saturday’s clash with defending champions England at Ashton Gate. Coach Sean Lynn praised her training intensity, noting she’s “chomping at the bit” to wear the jersey again after only half an hour of competitive rugby this season.

Wales also recall scrum‑half Keira Bevan to start, after she came off the bench in the loss to France. Injured captain Kate Williams makes way for debutant Branwen Metcalf in the back row, while Bethan Lewis captains the opposite flank. Bench options include wing Catherine Richards and the returning Alisha Joyce, with Carys Cox still nursing a training knock.

England arrive in Bristol fresh from a 12‑try demolition of Scotland, a performance that saw them rack up 84 points. Lynn acknowledges the English depth but urges his side to measure themselves against the world’s best, hoping the England test will sharpen Wales ahead of their fixtures with Ireland and Italy. Wales will need every ounce of Joyce’s physicality to turn the tide.