Wales vice-captain Alex Callender will be absent from the 2025 Women's Six Nations opener due to an ankle injury sustained while playing for Harlequins in the Premiership Women's Rugby. This setback adds to the growing concerns for the Welsh squad, who are already missing star prop Sisilia Tuipulotu for the entire tournament.

Head coach Sean Lynn confirmed that Callender will play a role in the tournament but will not be fit for the opening match against Scotland on March 22 in Edinburgh. Lynn expressed optimism, stating: 'Scotland will be too soon, fingers crossed England or France.'

Wales is set to face off against defending champions England at the Principality Stadium on March 29, followed by a challenging away fixture against France in Brive on April 12. The absence of key players like Callender and Tuipulotu poses a significant challenge to Wales' ambitions in the tournament.

Tuipulotu, who underwent surgery on her hamstring, will miss the entire Six Nations. Lynn remains positive, urging her to focus on recovery: 'It's such a shame, but what I've said to Sisilia is make sure that she turns this into a positive. I'm excited for her to come back bigger, fitter, and stronger for the World Cup. I think people forget how young she is.'

As Wales navigates these challenges, the team's resilience and depth will be put to the test in one of the most competitive rugby tournaments in the world.