Wales are pushing the pain barrier in a bid to improve their international standing. At the training base, sweat pours off players as they endure grueling spin bike chambers and interval runs. Head coach Sean Lynn and his staff are focused on whittling down the 46-player squad for the upcoming WXV Global Series.

The squad has been in camp since August 3, training through soaring temperatures. The want and need to be better is evident as they prepare for a challenging campaign. Wales kick off against South Africa at Cardiff Arms Park on 18 September, before hosting USA on 26 September.

They will then travel to Japan for two further Tests on 23 and 31 October. All three opponents are ranked above 12th-placed Wales, who have lost their last nine competitive fixtures. Despite a welcome victory over the Barbarians in June, the team knows they are still lacking in several areas, notably fitness.

Strength and conditioning coach Gareth Harris emphasizes the need to move the physical dial forward. Keira Bevan and her opposite number race cones as Harris encourages the squad. Forwards coach Steve Salvin highlights the coaching staff's improved cohesion, aiming to cover all bases.

The goal is to perform for 80 minutes, rather than just 50 to 60, to secure positive results. The squad believes the hard work will translate into a different Wales this time around.