Wales captain Hannah Jones and tight-head prop Sisilia Tuipulotu return to the squad for their second WXV2 game against Italy in Cape Town, set to take place on Friday, 4 October. Jones, who missed the opening 37-5 defeat to Australia due to a calf injury, is back in the starting lineup, while Tuipulotu, having resolved visa issues, joins the team after missing the first match.

Jones’ return at centre brings a reshuffle to the Welsh backline, with Carys Cox moving to the wing and Jasmine Joyce shifting to full-back. The forward pack remains unchanged, while young talent is featured on the bench, with under-20s players Molly Reardon, Alaw Pyrs, and Maisie Davies included among the replacements.

Wales will look to bounce back from a tough start in the competition, and the return of their captain is expected to add stability and leadership. Tuipulotu, a powerful presence in the scrum, will provide additional strength off the bench as the team looks to improve on their performance against Australia.

Italy, coming off a 19-0 loss to defending WXV2 champions Scotland, have also made several adjustments. The Azzurre welcome back Silvia Turani and Vittoria Vecchini in the front row, and Giordana Duca at lock. A revamped back row features Sara Tounesi, Francesca Sgorbini, and Elisa Giordano, while experienced midfielder Michela Sillari returns from injury to bolster the Italian attack.

Both teams will be eager to secure a victory following their disappointing opening-round defeats. Wales enter the match with confidence, having won their last two encounters against Italy, including a narrow victory in the Women’s Six Nations at the Principality Stadium earlier this year.

This match promises to be a pivotal one for both sides as they aim to get their WXV2 campaigns back on track.