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Sean Lynn given WXV boost by Wales’ young talent against Barbarians


Wales fielded a young side at Twickenham but there was also a healthy amount of experience in the shape of fit-again captain Callender, Alisha Joyce, Sisilia Tuipulotu, Keight and player of the match King.

The number eight got the side on the front foot to earn the plaudits of former Wales captain Siwan Lillicrap.

“We’ve seen the amount of line breaks and metres she’s made but her defensive work impresses as well,” said Lillicrap, who was a number eight herself, on S4C.

“She’s only 22 and could be world class, which she is on her way to being.”

High praise indeed, and the performance was in front of British and Irish Lions head coach Jo Yapp.

King was quick to point to the influence of two experienced back-row forwards alongside her in the starting line-up.

“To have Alex and Alisha by your side allows you to be yourself and play your game,” she said.

The back row is an area of strength for Wales, who were without Six Nations captains Kate Williams and Bethan Lewis, but concerns remain about the pivotal position of fly-half.

Playmaker Powell showed some promising signs after being shifted from full-back because of the return from injury of Nel Metcalfe, who was a shining light in the World Cup.

“She reminds me a bit of Phil Bennett, giving anything a go, running from everywhere, kicking comes second,” said former Wales wing Caryl James on BBC Radio Cymru.

Powell did only succeed with two of six conversions and was charged down twice in one phase before Bryony Cleall’s try, but gave her boss food for thought.

“Kayleigh was outstanding with the way she wanted to come onto the ball. You could see the intent that we had with trying to go to the edges,” said Lynn.

“It was pleasing and we have competition there with Kayleigh stepping up – Lleucu George comes into camp knowing that she is knocking on the door.”



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