Wales lose key players Callender and Metcalfe before Six Nations
Alex Callender and Nel Metcalfe, instrumental in Wales’ historic 2025 victory in Australia, will miss the 2026 Women's Six Nations due to injuries.
Callender, a pivotal back row forward, is sidelined with an ankle injury, while Gloucester-Hartpury full-back Metcalfe, a standout performer during last year’s World Cup, is dealing with a knee problem. Both injuries occurred during club matches and are expected to keep the players out for approximately three months.
In response, head coach Sean Lynn has appointed flanker Kate Williams as captain for the tournament, which begins against Scotland at Principality Stadium on Saturday, 11 April at 16:40 BST.
"This is disappointing injury news for the squad and for both Al Cal and Nel ahead of the Six Nations, but they will have the best medical and rehab care to get them back playing," Lynn stated.
"Al Cal has been a real leader for the squad and Nel has been one of the form players for Wales and her club in the PWR (Premiership Women's Rugby). This does mean there is an opportunity for players to step up and stake a claim for a place in the Wales squad for the Women's Six Nations. We have seen players really put their hands up for selection during the Celtic Challenge and the PWR."
Flanker Kate Williams named captain
Kate Williams, born in Swansea, made her Wales debut in 2023 and has been entrusted with the captaincy for the upcoming Six Nations.
Callender, who co-captained Wales during the two-Test series against Australia last year—leading the team to a historic first win on Australian soil—and at the World Cup in England, had overcome an ankle injury to participate in the tournament but required surgery following Wales’ early exit. She returned to play for Harlequins at the end of January; the current ankle injury is believed to be a new issue rather than a relapse.
Williams, who shared captaincy duties previously and debuted against Ireland in 2023, has earned the respect of her teammates and coaching staff.
"Kate Williams has the respect of the whole squad, and her leadership skills means she will be Wales captain for this Six Nations campaign," Lynn added.
Wales endured a challenging 2025 Six Nations campaign, losing all five matches and receiving their second consecutive Wooden Spoon.
