Cleall and Leitch come out of retirement to play for Barbarians

The Barbarians have announced a wave of new additions to their squad to face Wales later this month at Allianz Stadium, with a number of players including former England internationals Poppy Leitch and Bryony Cleall coming out of retirement to play for the invitational side.

The new additions include Cleall (England), Christine Belisle (Scotland), Laura Delgado (Spain), Charli Jacoby (USA), and Carys Phillips (Wales). Phillips, who has won 87 caps for Wales, is set to play against her country.

Other forwards selected by the Barbarians include England’s Leitch, Ilaria Arrighetti (Italy) and Emily Chancellor (Australia).

Ruby Tui was the first name to be confirmed the Barbarians and will now joined by representatives from multiple countries, bringing plenty of experience.

Scotland international scrum halves Caity Mattinson and Jenny Maxwell have been named and they feature in a squad which includes Lagi Tuima (England), Claudia Pena (Spain) and Lori Cramer (Australia), led by coaches Susie Appleby and Sarah Hunter who will be supported by Caroline Sune, the French U18 manager who was undefeated in the recent U18 Six Nations.

The remaining members of the Barbarians Women squad will be confirmed next week after the conclusion of the PWR semi-finals this weekend, with defending champions Gloucester Hartpury host Trailfinders Women, before Saracens take on Exeter Chiefs at StoneX Stadium.

Barbarian F.C Women’s lead Fiona Stockley said: “It is great to be able to name so many experienced international players in this latest squad announcement.

“The lure of the Barbarians is second to none and we have players from across the globe who are excited to wear the famous black and white jersey at Allianz and take on Wales in just under three weeks.

“We would like to thank all the clubs and Unions who we have worked with on selecting this players and we look forward to announcing the final squad next week”