Nel Metcalfe named in Wales squad for two-Test Japan tour

Nel Metcalfe has been named in Wales' 30-player squad for their two-Test WXV Global Series tour of Japan, with Sean Lynn retaining Alex Callender and Kate Williams as co-captains. RugbyPass reported the selection on Monday, with uncapped props Stella Orrin and Crystal James also included in the travelling group.

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The Gloucester-Hartpury full-back missed the 2026 Women's Six Nations with a knee injury. According to BBC Sport, the 21-year-old has recovered and was part of the extended group for September's matches against South Africa and the United States, but did not make either matchday squad. She also appeared in Wales' uncapped match against the Barbarians in June.

The touring party includes wing Amy Williams, prop Elan Jones and hooker Shanelle Williams, who made their Test debuts in September. RugbyPass reported that all three first appeared in the 50-19 victory over South Africa. Wales followed that result with a 26-24 defeat by the United States at Cardiff Arms Park.

The published squad comprises 17 forwards and 13 backs. Callender represents Harlequins and fellow co-captain Williams plays for Gloucester-Hartpury, while Orrin is listed with Brython Thunder and James with Trailfinders. The backs include Keira Bevan, Lleucu George and Lisa Neumann alongside Metcalfe. Inclusion in the tour party does not yet confirm selection for either Test.

Lynn said the September performances had made selection difficult. In comments carried by BBC Sport, he highlighted the eight tries scored against South Africa and his players' disappointment at losing to the sixth-ranked Americans by only two points. He viewed those reactions as evidence of a changing mindset, while stressing that Wales still had considerable work ahead to become the team he wanted.

Wales will play the first Test at Prince Chichibu Memorial Stadium in Tokyo on Saturday, October 24, with kick-off at 10:30 BST. The second meeting takes place seven days later at Kumagaya Rugby Stadium in Saitama Prefecture, starting at 07:00 GMT. The two matches form the Japan leg of Wales' campaign following their home fixtures against South Africa and the United States.