Wales enters the Women’s Six Nations with a clear goal: overturn a decade‑long slump against France. Coach Lynn keeps most of the squad that pushed Scotland close, adding Jasmine Joyce back on the wing and giving 19‑year‑old Seren Lockwood a start at scrum‑half. The move signals faith in a new generation.

France, under new head coach François Ratier, return largely unchanged, with Aubane Rousset replacing Joanna Grisez. The French side boasts power, pace and high‑impact athletes who can punish any looseness instantly. Wales’ recent defeat by Scotland highlighted gaps in turnover and transition ball, areas they must sharpen before facing that firepower in the coming round.

Lockwood’s debut at scrum‑half earned praise for her game‑changing support play, while Keira Bevan will be a key impact sub. On the bench, Teani Feleu, sister of captain Manae, is recalled, adding depth to a squad that once stunned France in 2016. The experience of players like Gabrielle Vernier remains vital for the team ahead.

With France’s power set to clash against Wales’ emerging talent, the stakes are high. A win would erase a ten‑year drought and restore confidence after a narrow loss to Scotland. The match, played at Cardiff’s Millennium Stadium, will decide whether the Welsh side can finally break the cycle of defeat in the six nations final.