Joyce set for Wales comeback after birth of sonImage source, Huw Evans Picture AgencyImage caption, Alisha Joyce’s last Test match was against Japan in WXV2 in October 2024ByCeri Coleman-PhillipsBBC Sport WalesPublished1 hour agoAlisha Joyce is set for her Wales comeback just five months after giving birth to her son Ralphie.Joyce is named among the replacements to face reigning world and Six Nations champions England at Ashton Gate on Saturday (14:15 BST), 562 days since she and her partner Jaz Joyce last played together for Wales.The 28-year-old Bristol Bears flanker has only had half an hour of rugby in the Celtic Challenge this season.But her physicality in training has impressed Wales head coach Sean Lynn.”What I love about Alisha, she’s been chomping at the bit to put that jersey back on since she’s been into camp,” he reported.”She’s been outstanding in training, so it’s exciting to see her coming off the bench.”Media caption, Women’s Six Nations: Alisha and Jasmine Joyce on motherhoodWales have recalled scrum-half Keira Bevan to the starting line-up.Bevan was replaced by Seren Lockwood in last weekend’s Six Nations defeat by France but has been given the nod on Saturday.
There is a first Wales start for Branwen Metcalfe, who takes the place of injured captain Kate Williams in the back row, while Bethan Lewis will lead the team from the opposite flank.
Wing Catherine Richards could make her first appearance of the campaign from the bench, with Carys Cox still recovering from a knock in training.
