Wales promote Bethan Lewis as Sean Lynn makes five starting changes

Wales head coach Sean Lynn has made five changes to his starting side following the 17-0 victory over Japan in Tokyo, promoting several players who contributed from the bench. BBC Sport Wales reported that Bethan Lewis, Gwen Crabb and Gwenllian Pyrs have all moved into the starting pack for the second WXV Test.

Lewis has been selected at flanker for her first start of the campaign, with co-captain Alex Callender moving to number eight. Lynn said the changes recognised the contribution of the players who completed the opening victory. He also described competition for selection as a means of raising standards across the team, while retaining a bench containing six forwards and two backs.

There is also a change at fly-half, where Lleucu George has been selected ahead of Keira Bevan. George will form the half-back partnership with Seren Lockwood, who scored two tries in the first Test. Bevan is among the replacements in the newly announced squad, alongside Reardon, Davies, E Jones, Aiono, Evans, King and De Vera.

Courtney Keight comes into the centre following Freya Bell's knee injury. In a separate report published on 27 October, BBC Sport said the Welsh Rugby Union had confirmed Bell would miss the second Test. She was taken off on a stretcher in the 53rd minute of the Tokyo match after landing awkwardly in a tackle.

The union said Bell was awaiting scan results, with the full extent of the injury to be assessed after her return home. That update did not establish a recovery timetable. Bell, who turned 21 this week, was to remain with the squad in Japan and travel home with her teammates on Sunday. Lynn expressed disappointment over the injury and said she would receive the best care.

Wales' first-Test win moved them above Japan to 11th in the world rankings. Their WXV campaign has also included victory over South Africa and a narrow defeat by the United States. The announced side will play at Kumagaya Rugby Stadium on 31 October, with kick-off scheduled for 07:00 GMT.