Wales co-captain Callender fit for World Cup Opener

Alex Callender, co-captain of the Wales women’s rugby team, has been declared fit for their Women’s Rugby World Cup opener against Scotland.

The match, set for Saturday at Salford Community Stadium, marks the start of their Pool B campaign.

Callender, who suffered an ankle injury late in the second Test against Australia on August 1 and was seen rehabbing on crutches, has recovered in time to lead the team.

Head coach Sean Lynn expressed relief at her return, calling it a "huge boost" for the squad and praising her resilience.

"Alex Callender has been declared fit and is raring to go and being able to select her is a huge boost for the squad."

"We are under no illusions of the importance of the opening game of our Pool at a World Cup and are determined to produce a performance worthy of the tournament and against a side who we enjoy a great rivalry with."

The starting team features a strong mix of experience and talent. Lisa Neumann, a wing who debuted in 2018 also against Scotland, will earn her 50th international cap in this match.

The midfield pairing of Hannah Dallavalle and Courtney Keight brings fresh energy, while Lleucu George and Keira Bevan take charge at half-back.

The front row comprises Gwenllian Pyrs, Kelsey Jones, and Donna Rose, and the powerful back row includes Callender alongside fiancé and co-captain Kate Williams, and Bethan Lewis.

Wales Line-Up: 1. Gwenllian Pyrs, 2. Kelsey Jones, 3. Donna Rose, 4. Alaw Pyrs, 5. Gwen Crabb, 6. Kate Williams (co-captain), 7. Bethan Lewis, 8. Alex Callender (co-captain), 9. Keira Bevan, 10. Lleucu George, 11. Jasmine Joyce-Butchers, 12. Courtney Keight, 13. Hannah Dallavalle, 14. Lisa Neumann, 15. Nel Metcalfe

Reserves: 16. Carys Phillips, 17. Maisie Davies, 18. Sisilia Tuipulotu, 19. Abbie Fleming, 20. Georgia Evans, 21. Seren Lockwood, 22. Kayleigh Powell, 23. Carys Cox