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 welcome back the midfield partnership after both players missed recent defeats to tournament heavyweights France and England. Cox sat out the last two rounds, while Dallavalle was a late scratch before Wales' 62-24 loss at Ashton Gate.
"It's lovely to have Carys and Hannah come back into it," Lynn said. "Carys went really well against Scotland and I was impressed with Hannah's performance against France."
However, the news isn't all positive for Wales. Influential second row Gwen Crabb picked up a knock in Monday's training session and will miss the trip to Ireland as a precaution. Georgia Evans and Natalia John are the leading contenders to step into the starting lineup.
"It's a precaution but hopefully she can be available for Italy," Lynn explained. "But for me it's all about giving opportunities. Georgia and Natalia have been training very well and they're chomping at the bit to go against Ireland."
Bethan Lewis will captain the side at Affidea Stadium, stepping in after Kate Williams was ruled out for the remainder of the tournament with a leg injury. Wales' injury woes continue, with Catherine Richards joining fellow wing Lisa Neumann on the sidelines after suffering a serious knee injury against the Red Roses.
The Six Nations returns after a two-week break, with Wales desperately seeking their first victory of the campaign. Currently rooted to the bottom of the table, they've managed to collect two bonus points—a small consolation that could prove vital in their fight to avoid a third consecutive wooden spoon.
Ireland sit fourth in the standings, their sole victory coming against Italy—the same side Wales will face in their final round clash at Cardiff Arms Park on Sunday, 17 May. With the pressure mounting and momentum to build, Lynn's side will be hoping their returning centres can spark the attacking firepower needed to turn their season around.