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Wales make three starting changes to face Ireland
TL;DR
Wales has made three starting changes for their Six Nations match against Ireland, with Carys Cox and Hannah Dallavalle returning to the lineup, and Georgia Evans making her first start of the campaign.
Key points
- Carys Cox returns to Wales' backline for the match against Ireland
- Hannah Dallavalle moves to the wing in place of Seren Singleton
- Georgia Evans starts in the second row due to Gwen Crabb's injury
WalesIrelandCarys CoxHannah Dallavalle
Carys Cox and Hannah Dallavalle return to Wales' backline for the Six Nations trip to Ireland on Saturday (18:30 BST).
Cox missed the defeats by France and England after picking up a knock in training, while Dallavalle was a late withdrawal against the Red Roses.
Cox slots back into midfield alongside Courtney Keight, while Dallavalle, usually a centre herself, moves out to the wing in place of Seren Singleton.
Georgia Evans is the third starting change, taking her place in the second row in place of the injured Gwen Crabb.
It will be Evans' first start of the campaign and she is partnered by Branwen Metcalfe who trades positions with Jorja Aiono in the back row.
Nikita Prothero is set for a debut off the bench, while Natalia John could win her 50th cap.
Bethan Lewis will lead the side out at Affidea Stadium, with Kate Williams ruled out of the rest of the tournament with a leg injury.
Wales are winless in the tournament so far, with their last Six Nations victory coming against Italy in 2024.
And despite the wooden spoon looming large for a third consecutive year, they are encouraged by their four-try showing against world champions England last time out.
"We are excited to resume the Six Nations and build on the grit and resilience we showed against England," said Wales head coach Sean Lynn.
"We took another real step forward in building our playing style and team identity and we know we have to do the same against Ireland in their own backyard.
"This is a new-look Wales squad and it's all about sticking to our principles and process and focussing on what we want to do and expect from ourselves in the Test arena.
"Ireland are an ambitious side and will be hurting after their run of results in the tournament and we know they will be looking to make a statement in Belfast on Saturday."
How they line up
Wales: Powell; Dallavalle, Cox, Keight, J Joyce; George, Bevan; Pyrs, Jones, Tuipulotu, Metcalfe, Evans, Aiono, Lewis (capt), King
Replacements: Reardon,Davies, Rose, John, A Joyce, Lockwood, Bell, Prothero
Officials
Referee: Aurélie Groizeleau (FFR)
Assistants: Alexandra Ferre (FFR), Beatrice Smussi (FIR)
TMO: Paulo Duarte (FPR)
FPRO: Dan Jones (RFU)
Q&A
Who are the players returning to the Wales starting lineup against Ireland?
Carys Cox and Hannah Dallavalle are returning to the starting lineup for Wales.
What positions are Carys Cox and Hannah Dallavalle playing in the match against Ireland?
Carys Cox will play in midfield, while Hannah Dallavalle will move to the wing.
Why is Georgia Evans starting in the match against Ireland?
Georgia Evans is starting to replace the injured Gwen Crabb, marking her first start of the campaign.
