Wales’ women’s rugby team is in the final stages of an intensive pre-season training camp, with coaching staff working to strengthen multiple areas of their game before competitive matches resume. The 46-strong squad has been training since 3 August, enduring high temperatures while undergoing rigorous conditioning programs designed to address identified fitness gaps.
The team will begin their campaign in the WXV Global Series against South Africa on 18 September at Cardiff Arms Park, followed by USA on 26 September. Wales will then travel to Japan for two additional Test matches on 23 and 31 October. All three opponents currently rank higher than Wales, who sit at 12th place and have struggled in recent competitive play, losing their last nine fixtures. A June victory over Barbarians provided some encouragement, but the team recognizes substantial work remains.
Strength and conditioning coach Gareth Harris has made fitness a primary focus, implementing intensive interval training sessions. Despite players experiencing significant soreness, Harris described the squad’s attitude as exceptional and noted their commitment to improving standards. He emphasized the team’s determination to dominate games rather than simply participate at the international level, suggesting visible changes will emerge in forthcoming matches.
Forwards coach Steve Salvin highlighted improvements in set piece work, attack, and defense, while identifying a critical need to maintain performance standards across full 80-minute matches. During earlier competition, Wales performed adequately for approximately 50 to 60 minutes but struggled to sustain that level. Head coach Sean Lynn’s tenure began in March 2025, with the team recording only two victories thus far—the Barbarians match and an Australia Test from the previous summer.
The autumn series represents a significant opportunity for Wales to accumulate wins and improve their world ranking standings, where they previously reached sixth place three years ago. The new WXV format directly impacts 2029 Rugby World Cup qualification, adding considerable stakes to the upcoming competition.
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