Lewis set for Wales return in World Cup warm-up
Ffion Lewis captained Wales in her first spell in rugby league in 2021 before switching to rugby union
- Published
Dual-code international Ffion Lewis is set to make her first Wales rugby league appearance in five years in this month's World Cup warm-up against Canada in Neath.
The former captain returned to rugby league last year after winning 33 caps in the 15-a-side game.
Wales coach Tom Brindle has named five uncapped players in a squad of 23 as preparations continue for October's World Cup games against hosts Australia, England and Samoa.
"We're really excited for this challenge against Canada - this is exactly the sort of fixture we need as we continue building towards the World Cup," he said.
"We've named five players who could make their international debuts, and that's a reflection of the strength that's developing in the women's game.
"Every one of them has earned this opportunity through consistently strong performances at club level and they've pushed the experienced players all the way for selection."
Jade Mullen, Frances Layton, Zoe Heeley, Sioned Young and Hollie Brussels will all win first caps if they make the field at The Gnoll on Sunday, 19 July.
Wales reached the eight-team World Cup for the first time in their history by beating Ireland and the Netherlands in qualifying two years ago.
Opponents Canada lost 48-0 to Fiji in a play-off semi-final.
"We know Canada will provide a tough, physical test, but our focus is on playing our game, continuing to improve the standards we've set and giving those new players the confidence to show what they can do in a Wales shirt," added Brindle.
Wales squad: Leanne Burnell, Katie Carr, Jasmine Gibbons, Seren Gough-Walters, Zoe Heeley, Ffion Jenkins, Sara Jones, Frances Layton, Rhi Parker, Amberley Ruck, Olivia Williams, Sioned Young (all Cardiff Demons), Georgia Cussons, Gracie Hobbs (both Huddersfield Giants), Emily Hughes, Ffion Lewis, Jade Mullen, Kathryn Salter (all London Broncos), Dani McGifford (St Helens), Hollie Brussels (Warrington Wolves), Bethan Dainton, Carys Marsh (both Wigan Warriors), Agnes Wood (York Valkyrie).
