The front row of Caryl Thomas, Carys Phillips and Amy Evans return, along with Siwan Lillicrap who partners Mel Clay in the second row. The only change in the backline from the team that beat Hong Kong 65-0 last Friday sees Kiera Bevan return at scrum half.
Phillips said, “There’s a huge excitement in the camp about representing Wales against one of the best female teams in the world.
“We lost twice to Canada in the World Cup last year but we have taken positive steps to improve following that experience. I know our conditioning and skills are better and this is an outstanding opportunity to test ourselves and get a clear indication of where we lie as a team.
“We have used a small squad during these November games which has allowed us to expose a number of players to international rugby and build momentum going into the Six Nations.
“We knew South Africa would be physical, we were pleased with the rugby we put together against Hong Kong, but Canada was always going to be the toughest test. Having watched them against England on the weekend, they pose threats across the pitch. They are big athletes and play a fast game with width.
“To get better, we want to play the top teams and we’re looking forward to this challenge.”
Wales Women v Canada (Saturday 24 November, 11.30am, Cardiff Arms Park):
Lauren Smyth (Ospreys); Jasmine Joyce (Scarlets), Alecs Donnovan (Ospreys), Alicia McComish (Dragons), Lisa Neumann (RGC); Robyn Wilkins (Blues), Keira Bevan(Ospreys); Caryl Thomas (Dragons), Carys Phillips (capt, Ospreys), Amy Evans (Ospreys), Siwan Lillicrap (Ospreys), Mel Clay (Ospreys), Manon Johnes (Blues), Bethan Lewis (Dragons), Sioned Harries (Scarlets)
Replacements:
Kelsey Jones (Ospreys), Cara Hope (Ospreys), Cerys Hale (Dragons), Natalia John (Ospreys), Gwen Crabb (Ospreys), Ffion Lewis (Scarlets); Hannah Jones (Scarlets) Jess Kavanagh (RGC);
Wales Women November Test Series
Saturday 10 November Wales Women 19-5 South Africa
Fri 16 Nov Wales Women 65-0 Hong Kong
Sat 24 Nov Wales Women v Canada 11.30am
Tickets £5 adults, all concessions including students and senior tickets £1, available from Cardiff Blues ticket office
