**Wales Secure Historic Win Over Australia as Rugby World Reacts**
Wales’ women’s rugby side have achieved a landmark victory in Brisbane, overcoming Australia 21-12 in a result that marks a significant moment for the team and the sport in the country. The win, achieved under the direction of new head coach Sean Lynn, represents Wales’ first triumph of the 2025 calendar year and an impressive response following the disappointment of a winless Six Nations.
The fixture, delayed by half an hour due to heavy storms, saw the Welsh players deliver what many observers described as their most inspired performance for years. With the adverse weather providing a tough challenge, full-back Nel Metcalfe starred by scoring twice, while Hannah Dallavalle added a third try to secure victory. Leadership came from co-captain Alex Callender, who led the team by example throughout an intense contest.
Emotions ran high at the final whistle, with Wales Women’s head of rugby, Belinda Moore, moved to tears as the scale of the victory became clear. The BBC reported this outpouring of feeling, which reflects not only the significance of the result, but also the journey the team has been on in recent seasons.
Following the match, Metcalfe expressed her joy and relief, highlighting the gruelling eight-week pre-season that culminated in this result. “We’ve worked incredibly hard for this, so it just feels fantastic to get the win,” she commented. Metcalfe also pointed to the team’s intent to play positive rugby, even in poor conditions, and spoke enthusiastically about the energy that new coach “Lynny” has brought to the group. Looking ahead, she hoped the young squad could build on this performance for the remainder of the season and into the World Cup.
Elsewhere in rugby news, Wales legend Jonathan Davies made headlines by naming Owen Farrell as the best player he has ever played alongside. Farrell, controversially called up to the British and Irish Lions squad for the 2025 tour despite limited action this year, has faced questions from pundits and fans regarding his role in the side—particularly as his father, Andy Farrell, leads the touring party.
Davies, however, was unequivocal in his support. Speaking on the Off The Ball Rugby podcast, he praised Farrell’s ability and leadership on and off the field, saying, “He’s the best player I think I’ve played with.” Reflecting on their centre partnership with Johnny Sexton on previous Lions tours, Davies joked about letting the two control the match: “You steer the ship, and I’ll do the donkey work!”
Lions captain Maro Itoje has also spoken out ahead of the second Test against Australia in Melbourne, dismissing the idea that the Wallabies are an unworthy opponent. Despite the Lions being favoured to win the series, Itoje remarked, “We are not playing a pub team. The Wallabies are a proper team and can punish you if you don’t approach the game properly.” This comment follows a challenging midweek match against the First Nations and Pasifika XV, which served as a wake-up call for the touring side.
Australia’s captain, Harry Wilson, echoed a similar sentiment, pointing to the physical approach shown by the Pasifika XV as a potential blueprint for his side heading into the weekend’s clash. The match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground promises to be a fierce battle, with both teams keen to assert themselves in the ongoing series.
On the domestic front, Wales international Jacob Beetham has offered an encouraging injury update as he prepares for the new season with Cardiff. The versatile back has endured a difficult year on the sidelines but is optimistic about his rehabilitation and hopes to feature in pre-season matches. “Rehab is going well and I’m looking to be fit for these pre-season games,” Beetham said at the Royal Welsh Show. He highlighted the importance of staying positive during long-term rehabilitation and credited his fellow injured teammates for their support.
Beetham also touched on the hard work being put in during training, noting the intensity of fitness sessions led by head of strength and conditioning, Ryan Campbell. With his sights set on contributing to the team in the upcoming season, the 24-year-old’s update provides a welcome boost for club and fans alike.
This week’s news underlines a period of transition and renewal in Welsh rugby, with new leadership, emerging stars, and determined efforts to reclaim past glories and carve out a brighter future for the game in Wales.