Welsh rugby's next generation is ready for the spotlight. Wales has named a 32-player squad for the inaugural Women's Under-21 Six Nations Summer Series, a crucial development tournament designed to bridge the gap to the senior international stage.

Head coach Liza Burgess has selected a squad rich with talent from the Celtic Challenge sides Brython Thunder and Gwalia Lightning, highlighting the pathway these teams provide. The young Dragons will face a challenging schedule against France, Ireland, and Italy in a new home-and-away format.

The action kicks off with a historic double-header at Cardiff Arms Park on April 18th, where the U21s will play France immediately after the senior Women's Six Nations clash. This provides a fantastic platform for the aspiring stars. The squad then travels to face Italy in Piacenza on May 2nd before returning home to host Ireland at Ystrad Mynach on May 10th.

This revamped format, moving from a week-long festival, is a strategic shift by the Welsh Rugby Union. It aims to mirror the travel and preparation rhythms of the elite Women's Six Nations, giving these athletes invaluable experience for the professional game. "The draw is brilliant for us," said an excited Coach Burgess. "Playing after the senior women at the Arms Park for the first time will be an historic occasion."

The selected squad, blending powerful forwards and dynamic backs, represents the future of Welsh women's rugby. As they prepare to pull on the red jersey, their journey is a testament to the growing infrastructure and ambition within the game.