Wales suffers a significant injury setback as Kayleigh Powell, the Harlequins star, is ruled out of the entire WXV Global Series due to a hamstring injury sustained in training. The 27-year-old, who has made a name for herself as a standout full-back during the Six Nations and showcased her skills at fly-half against the Barbarians in June, expressed her disappointment on social media, stating she is "absolutely gutted" to miss the tournament but has "every faith that this team will do great things."

This absence adds to the challenges faced by head coach Sean Lynn, who is already missing Donna Rose, the Premiership Women's Rugby (PRW) title-winning prop. Additionally, backs Carys Cox and Nel Metcalfe have only just returned to training, leaving the squad in a tight spot.

In light of Powell's injury, Lleucu George is expected to step in at fly-half, while scrum-half Keira Bevan has been training in that position during the pre-season, providing Lynn with some tactical flexibility.

Wales is set to kick off their campaign against South Africa at Cardiff Arms Park on Friday at 19:15 BST, hoping to overcome these hurdles and make a strong impression in the tournament.