**WRU Responds to Disturbing Video, Four Women’s Players Dropped as Rugby Headlines Dominate in Wales**
The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) has addressed public concern after unsettling footage, purportedly involving a Welsh community rugby side, began circulating on social media. The incident has cast a shadow over recent updates in Welsh rugby, coinciding with significant changes to the women’s international squad and player movements abroad.
The viral video, recorded on 23 May outside a Calgary city centre bar, appears to show members of Nelson RFC, an established club from WRU Division One East, embroiled in a physical altercation with local residents. The confrontation, which unfolded in plain view of bystanders, has prompted the WRU to initiate a formal inquiry, reiterating their commitment to upholding the reputation of Welsh rugby globally.
In its initial statement, the WRU underscored the seriousness with which it treats allegations of misconduct, stating: “We are investigating allegations around the behaviour of individuals associated with one of our community game member clubs whilst on a recent overseas rugby tour and take these matters extremely seriously. We are not yet in a position to provide any further information as the investigation is ongoing.”
While investigations continue, Nelson RFC have confirmed they are fully cooperating with the governing body and are equally committed to clarifying the circumstances. For supporters and stakeholders in the rugby community, the incident is a stark reminder of the responsibilities that come with international tours both on and off the pitch.
Elsewhere, significant news broke regarding the Wales Women’s rugby squad as preparations intensify ahead of a crucial summer. Head coach Sean Lynn has assembled a 45-player extended squad—a blend of seasoned internationals and promising youth talents—in hopes of revitalising morale following a disappointing, winless Six Nations campaign.
The upcoming calendar includes a two-Test tour in Australia to face the Wallaroos, interwoven with the excitement of the British and Irish Lions’ visit, before immediate focus turns to the Women’s Rugby World Cup in England later in the summer. Among those given the nod are new and returning faces, with backrower Sisilia Tuipulotu set to rejoin after recovering from injury.
However, the announcement also brought disappointment for some. News that Ffion Lewis, Carys Williams-Morris, Meg Webb, and Niamh Terry would not have their contracts renewed signifies the end of an era for several long-serving players. The WRU publicly thanked the quartet for their dedication and contributions, wishing them well in future endeavours—a move which, while expected in the high-turnover nature of elite sport, nonetheless marks the closing of a chapter.
Coach Lynn offered his perspective, framing the intense summer ahead as both a challenge and an opportunity. “Our 2025 World Cup preparation starts here. We’ve introduced fresh faces from youth squads alongside our experienced core,” he reflected, noting that competition for places in the final tour party and World Cup squad would be fierce. The coaching team, he notes, is keen to convert the lessons of recent setbacks into future success, stressing that all selected players have a genuine opportunity to earn their place on merit.
In a separate development across the Severn, former England and British & Irish Lions international Billy Twelvetrees has opted to resume his playing career after confirming a dual-role player-coach position with Worcester Warriors. The once-retired centre, with 22 England caps and a rich domestic pedigree, is poised to play a mentoring and active role in the club’s new era as it returns to the RFU Championship.
Twelvetrees expressed enthusiasm for the fresh challenge, saying, “Joining Worcester Warriors as a player-coach is a fantastic opportunity. I’m excited to contribute, help develop talent, and bring energy to the squad.” His return exemplifies the sort of leadership and resilience that rugby values highly, particularly as clubs at every level look to the future post-pandemic.
Amid these various headlines, Welsh rugby continues to navigate moments of both disruption and renewal. Off-field discipline remains in sharp focus as the grassroots and professional tiers strive to balance tradition, aspiration, and the realities of modern sport. Fans and governing bodies alike will be watching closely as these stories develop—both for accountability and the promise of a new dawn, particularly for the women’s game.
As always, the rugby community is left reflecting on the conduct, commitment, and camaraderie at the heart of the sport, and the fine lines that separate its brightest and toughest moments.