Wales Women U21 head coach Liza Burgess has named her side to face France in the opening round of the inaugural Six Nations Women’s U21 Series this Saturday at Cardiff Arms Park (KO: 6.15pm).

The fixture forms part of a special double header in the Welsh capital, following the senior Women’s Six Nations clash between Wales and France earlier in the afternoon. The occasion offers supporters a full day of international rugby and the chance to watch both the present and future of Welsh women’s rugby in action.

The encounter also marks a historic milestone, as Wales U21 Women take to the field for their first-ever match in the new Six Nations competition. Burgess has selected an exciting and well-balanced squad ready to rise to the challenge.

A number of players involved in the senior Six Nations squad have been released to feature, adding valuable experience to the U21 group. Kelsie Webster and Sian Jones start in the backs, while Katherine Baverstock, Elan Jones and Tilly Vucaj are included in the forward pack. Alaw Pyrs is named among the replacements.

“We’ve got a really good mix within the squad,” said Burgess. “The players coming down from the senior set-up have been brilliant – they’ve brought intensity and lifted standards across the group.

“It’s an exciting group with players already gaining experience at the top level, and that will only strengthen what we’re building. This is a big step in our development pathway, and it shows how many young players are now pushing for higher honours.”

With the game kicking off shortly after the senior international, Burgess is eager for fans to stay and support the next generation.

“This is a really special occasion for the players – running out at Cardiff Arms Park, representing Wales, and doing so after the senior team is something they’re all incredibly excited about.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity for supporters to see what’s coming through and to get behind the future of Welsh rugby.”

A full day of international action awaits at Cardiff Arms Park, so make sure you don’t miss out by securing your tickets now.

Wales U21 Starting XV

1. Katherine Baverstock (Leicester Tigers)

2. Molly Wakely (Gwalia Lightning)

3. Elan Jones (Brython Thunder)

4. Robyn Davies (Brython Thunder)

5. Tilly Vucaj (Gwalia Lightning)

6. Lily Terry (Gwalia Lightning)

7. Lucy Isaac (Brython Thunder)

8. Gwennan Hopkins (Gwalia Lightning) – Captain

9. Sian Jones (Gloucester/Hartpury/Gwalia Lightning)

10. Hanna Marshall (Gwalia Lightning)

11. Kelsie Webster (Gwalia Lightning)

12. Freya Bell (Gwalia Lightning) – Vice-Captain

13. Hanna Tudor (N/A)

14. Gabby Healan (Brython Thunder)

15. Amy Williams (Brython Thunder)

Replacements

16. Shanelle Williams (Brython Thunder)

17. Crystal James (Gwalia Lightning)

18. Elizabeth Cook (Cardiff Met)

19. Alaw Pyrs (Gwalia Lightning)

20. Chiara Pearce (Gwalia Lightning)

21. Katie Bevans (Gwalia Lightning)

22. Mollie Wilkinson (Brython Thunder)

23. Isla McMullen (Cardiff Met)