The WRU has appointed Siwan Lillicrap as its first head of women's coaching and development. Lillicrap said she has enjoyed the past three and a half years working with Wales U18s and as performance pathway manager, during which the development system has improved and players have transitioned successfully into senior environments. She highlighted Wales' ambitious pathway and vision to develop people and players for success at the highest level.

As Wales women's under-18s coach, Lillicrap led her side to a 32-24 victory over England in the 2026 U18s Six Nations Festival. WRU technical director Rhys Long called the appointment key, recognising the rapid growth in playing numbers and coaches across the women's game in Wales.

Lillicrap brings extensive playing experience as a former Wales captain, and her role as WRU pathway manager for player development centres for women's and girls rugby was central to her selection. She was one of the first 12 players awarded full-time WRU playing contracts for Wales women in 2022.