The 2025 Women’s Six Nations is almost upon us, and there is renewed optimism for Wales as they head into the championship under new head coach, Sean Lynn. After finishing last in the 2024 edition, Wales will be looking to bounce back when they face Scotland in the opening match at The Hive Stadium in Edinburgh on Saturday, 22 March, with kick-off scheduled for 16:45 GMT.
Lynn, fresh from guiding Gloucester-Hartpury to the Premiership Women’s Rugby title, has selected a 37-player squad blending experienced internationals with up-and-coming talent, many of whom impressed during the Celtic Challenge. As the World Cup looms later this year, we have identified six young players to watch, each bringing a fresh burst of energy to the squad.
1. Alaw Pyrs, 19, Second Row
Alaw Pyrs, the younger sister of established Wales loose-head Gwenllian Pyrs, has shown she is more than capable of stepping out from her sister’s shadow. The Bangor-born lock made her senior Wales debut last September in a WXV2 warm-up against Scotland, and shortly after, travelled to South Africa with the squad. Although it was a turbulent period for the team due to contract disputes and the departure of former head coach Ioan Cunningham, Pyrs demonstrated her talent during the Celtic Challenge.
Standing at 5ft 11in and weighing over 14 stone, Pyrs brings a formidable physical presence to the pack. Her strength and ball-carrying ability make her a key player for Wales, and the Conwy farmer’s impressive performances for Gwalia Lightning in the Celtic Challenge suggest she could make a significant impact in 2025.
“I look up to Gwenllian as my rugby hero,” Pyrs says. “But I want to prove myself in my own right.”
2. Maisie Davies, 19, Prop
Maisie Davies is already making waves in Welsh rugby, having been named Wales’ MVP during the 2024 Women’s Summer Series in Parma, after scoring three tries in three matches. Originally a blindside flanker, Davies made a seamless transition to loose-head prop, retaining the dynamic skills of a winger while developing her new role in the front row.
Her leadership qualities have already been recognised, with many tipping her as a future Wales captain. Davies made her senior debut alongside Pyrs in the Scotland warm-up match and toured South Africa in the autumn. Her performances for Gwalia Lightning, particularly a player-of-the-match display at Parc y Scarlets, show that she has the potential to follow in the footsteps of Wales’ legendary props.
3. Sian Jones, 20, Scrum-half
Sian Jones has quickly established herself as one of the most promising scrum-halves in Wales. A product of the Gwalia Lightning, Jones made her senior debut for Wales in the 2024 Six Nations and has been pushing experienced players like Keira Bevan for the nine jersey ever since.
Born in Bodelwyddan, Jones was the only girl in her mixed rugby team until she was 14, a unique experience that has helped her develop a fiery determination and competitive edge. Her skill as a ball distributor was evident during her Six Nations debut against Scotland, despite a kicking error that cost Wales their final attack of the game. But Jones’ resilience shone through as she earned a starting spot against England in the next match and continued to impress.
“I believe in my ability, and I’m ready for the competition,” Jones says, eyeing a prominent role in the 2025 Six Nations.
4. Nel Metcalfe, 20, Wing/Full-Back
Nel Metcalfe has been one of the standout players in Welsh women’s rugby since her senior debut in 2023. The Nant Conwy utility back made her first appearance in north Wales in a WXV1 warm-up victory over the USA, before starting against world champions New Zealand in Dunedin. Despite a heavy loss and a yellow card for pulling hair, Metcalfe’s performance stood out, demonstrating the courage and commitment that have come to define her career.
This season, she has been in fine form for Gloucester-Hartpury, scoring tries and impressing at WXV2. Known for her fearless play and instinctive attacking style, Metcalfe cites Dyddgu Hywel as her inspiration. With the confidence she has gained from her international experience, she is expected to play a key role in Wales’ backline this year.
5. Bryonie King, 21, Back Row
Bryonie King is no stranger to international rugby, having first been on the radar at the age of just 15. The athletic back-rower, hailing from a sporting family in Mountain Ash, has represented Wales in both rugby sevens and rugby league. Her leadership qualities have been recognised, and she captained Gwalia Lightning during the 2024 season, sharing the role with powerhouse Gwennan Hopkins.
King made her senior debut in the 2023 Women’s Six Nations and is eager to make a bigger impact in 2025. With a playing style inspired by All Blacks legend Richie McCaw, King’s hard work and dedication make her a formidable presence on the pitch. After an impressive domestic season, she could be a key player for Wales in the upcoming Six Nations.
6. Molly Reardon, 21, Hooker
Molly Reardon has been playing rugby since the age of five, first alongside her brother at Merthyr Tydfil before switching to women’s rugby with Nelson Belles. A versatile player, Reardon has also represented Wales in rugby league, honing her physicality and game awareness. Originally a scrum-half, she made the transition to hooker while studying at Cardiff Met, a move that has paid off.
Reardon made her senior debut in the 2024 Six Nations against England and, with Kelsey Jones’ season-ending injury, seized her opportunity with eight caps to date. A mobile front-rower with a keen eye for the lineout, Reardon is likely to become a regular try-scorer, thanks to Wales’ powerful driving maul.
As Wales head into the 2025 Women’s Six Nations, these six players represent the future of Welsh rugby. With their blend of talent, resilience, and leadership, they are ready to help Wales make their mark on the tournament, beginning with Saturday’s clash against Scotland.
Women’s Six Nations: Scotland v Wales
Venue: The Hive Stadium, Edinburgh
Date: Saturday, 22 March
Kick-off: 16:45 GMT
Coverage: Live on BBC One Wales
