Hannah Dallavalle has been called into the starting XV for Wales’ Women’s Six Nations clash against France at Cardiff Arms Park on Saturday, April 18, 2026, following a late injury withdrawal by Carys Cox. The 29-year-old centre, who had initially been named on the bench, steps into the starting lineup as Wales seeks to finish a decade-long winless streak against their Six Nations rivals.
Dallavalle, a former Wales captain with 66 caps since her debut in 2015, brings significant experience to the Welsh backline. Her inclusion comes after Cox, who was originally selected to start at centre, suffered an injury during final preparations, prompting a last-minute change to the Welsh squad.
The match represents a crucial opportunity for Wales, who are seeking their first victory over France in 10 years. Under head coach Sean Lynn, Wales have endured a challenging run in the Six Nations, having won only one of their last 11 Tests and entering the fixture on a six-match losing streak in the championship.
Wales’ starting lineup for the encounter features Dallavalle in the centres alongside Keight, with the fullback position occupied by Powell. The Welsh forwards include Tuipulotu, Aiono, Crabb, Lewis, Williams (captain), and King, while the halfbacks are George and Lockwood. The back row comprises Pyrs, Jones, and Tuipulotu.
On the bench, uncapped Jenna de Vera has been added to the Wales 23 and could make her senior debut as a substitute. The 20-year-old, who previously captained Wales at Under-20 level, joins the replacement forwards alongside Reardon, Davies, Rose, John, Metcalfe, Evans, and Bevan.
France, meanwhile, name a strong starting XV led by captain M Feleu at number eight. Their backline includes Barrat at fullback, with Grando and Rousset on the wings and Vernier and Murie in the centres. The French forward pack features experienced internationals such as Zago, Fall Raclot, Berthoumieu, and L Champon.
The atmosphere at Cardiff Arms Park is expected to be charged, with both teams aware of the historical significance of the fixture. Wales have not defeated France in the Women’s Six Nations since 2016, making this encounter particularly significant for Sean Lynn’s side as they seem to reverse their recent fortunes.
For Dallavalle, the start marks a return to a prominent role after stepping down from the Wales captaincy in 2025. In recent interviews, she has spoken about adapting to life without the armband, describing how she has found enjoyment in a more relaxed team environment while maintaining her commitment to performance on the field.
As the teams prepare to take the field, the focus will be on whether Dallavalle’s experience and the tactical adjustments made by the Welsh coaching staff can produce the breakthrough result that has eluded them in recent meetings with France.
The match kicks off at Cardiff Arms Park as part of the 2026 Women’s Six Nations Championship, with both teams aware that a victory would represent a significant step forward in their respective campaigns.