Branwen Metcalfe and Wales aim for first back-to-back wins since 2023

This weekend, Branwen Metcalfe and Wales are aiming to win back-to-back Test matches for the first time since 2023.

On Saturday, Wales will face Japan in the second of two Test matches between the teams.

Last time out, Sean Lynn’s team recorded their second win of the WXV Global Series 2026 campaign, beating the Sakura Fifteen 17-0 in Tokyo.

Backing up last week’s performance at Kumagaya Rugby Stadium is therefore the only thing on Wales’ agenda this weekend. Another victory would mean a lot to a team that went 13 months without a win before beating South Africa 50-19 in September.

“It’s really big for us,” Metcalfe said. “Lynny said that, as a squad, we’ve never done that. The last time Wales did it was 2023. It’s massive for us. We’ve got a real opportunity to do that. It’s an exciting time.”

Metcalfe has now started Wales’ last six games. One of the young players Lynn has relied on heavily as he looks to get the side back to winning ways and build for the future, the 20-year-old is certainly making the most of her opportunities.

In the WXV Global Series this autumn, Metcalfe has made 45 tackles, won 11 lineouts, carried the ball 16 times and made one line break.

Despite her strong performances in a settled squad, Metcalfe is not allowing herself to become too comfortable in the starting XV.

“Definitely not settled,” Metcalfe said. “It’s quite a hard place to feel completely settled, but I’m still pushing for that starting jersey. I think there’s plenty of growth still to come.

“[I’m] definitely learning quickly. You have to at this level if you want to compete. I’m learning a lot.”

Metcalfe was joined on the pitch by her older sister, Nel, in Tokyo. It was the first time the pair had played together for Wales since the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup.

Due to injury, Nel missed the 2026 Guinness Women’s Six Nations, as well as Wales’ home WXV Global Series fixtures against South Africa and the match in Cardiff.

“I’m really chuffed for her,” Branwen said. “She’s been working really, really hard on her rehab. It’s nice for her to get back on the pitch. She deserves it. I’ve seen how grumpy she’s been.”