Wales have received a timely fitness boost ahead of their crucial Women's Six Nations clash against Ireland in Belfast this Saturday (18:30 BST), with centre duo Carys Cox and Hannah Dallavalle returning to full training.

Head coach Sean Lynn will be relieved to have his midfield partnership back in contention after both players missed recent defeats. Cox sat out the losses to France and England, while Dallavalle was a late withdrawal before the 62-24 defeat at Ashton Gate.

"It's lovely to have Carys and Hannah come back into it," said Lynn. "I think Carys went really well against Scotland and I was impressed with Hannah's performance against France."

However, Wales will be without influential second row Gwen Crabb, who picked up a knock in Monday's training session. Georgia Evans or Natalia John are the likely replacements, with Lynn taking a cautious approach: "It's a precaution but hopefully she can be available for Italy. But for me it's all about giving opportunities, and Georgia and Natalia have been training very well and they're chomping at the bit to go against Ireland."

Bethan Lewis will lead the side out at Affidea Stadium, stepping in as captain after Kate Williams was ruled out for the remainder of the tournament with a leg injury. The backline has also taken a hit, with Catherine Richards joining Lisa Neumann on the sidelines after suffering a serious knee injury against the Red Roses.

The tournament returns this weekend after a two-week hiatus, and Wales are desperate to get their first win on the board. Currently sitting bottom of the table, they have two bonus points to their name—points that could prove crucial in their fight to avoid a third consecutive wooden spoon. Ireland sit fourth, with their sole victory coming against Italy, who Wales host at Cardiff Arms Park in the final round on Sunday, 17 May.

Despite heavy defeats to the world's best, Lynn remains upbeat: "I'm happy with the small wins against England. Obviously we were disappointed with leaking 60 points, however set-piece is an area we've been working hard on, and the girls are determined to show their true potential against Ireland."

For the Wales squad, this weekend represents more than just a chance to climb the table—it's an opportunity to prove they belong on the Six Nations stage, with their never-say-die spirit ready to shine through once again.