Wales centre duo give Wales fitness boost against Ireland

Image source, Huw Evans Picture Agency

• Published21 minutes ago

Head coach Sean Lynn has been handed a fitness boost ahead of Wales' trip to Belfast to take on Ireland in the Women's Six Nations on Saturday (18:30 BST).

Carys Cox, who missed the defeats by France and England, is back in full training, alongside midfield partner Hannah Dallavalle who was a late withdrawal ahead of the 62-24 loss at Ashton Gate.

"It's lovely to have Carys and Hannah come back into it. I think Carys went really well against Scotland and I was impressed with Hannah's performance against France," said Lynn.

But Wales will be without influential second row Gwen Crabb who picked up a knock in Monday's training session, with Georgia Evans or Natalia John the likely replacements.

"It's a precaution but hopefully she [Crabb] can be available for Italy," said Lynn.

"But for me it's all about giving opportunities, and Georgia and Natalia have been training very well and they're chomping at the bit to go against Ireland."

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Bethan Lewis is set to lead the side out at Affidea Stadium, with Kate Williams ruled out of the rest of the tournament with a leg injury.

Catherine Richards has also joined fellow wing Lisa Neumann on the sidelines after suffering a serious knee injury against the Red Roses.

The tournament returns this weekend after a two-week hiatus, with Wales looking to pick up their first win of the campaign.

They are currently bottom of the table, but have two bonus points, which could prove crucial in their bid to avoid a third consecutive wooden spoon.

Ireland are fourth, with their sole victory coming over Italy, who Wales host at Cardiff Arms Park in the final round on Sunday, 17 May.

"I'm happy with the small wins against England, obviously we were disappointed with leaking 60 points, however set-piece and getting the try bonus point was very good for us," said Lynn.

"Ireland will be upset as a group, they threw everything at France and came away with nothing, they're going to be hurt and wounded and are really going to be targeting us.

"It's all about making sure that we can back up everything we did well against England and everything we want to be putting right against Ireland."

Ireland v Wales

Guinness Women's Six Nations

Saturday 9 May, kick-off 18:30 BST

Affidea Stadium, Belfast

Watch every match live on BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport website and app; listen to match commentaries on BBC Radio 5 Live, Sports Extra and BBC Sounds; follow live text and match highlights online

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• Welsh Rugby
• Rugby Union