The Welsh women’s national rugby team will enter the upcoming Rugby World Cup with a special kind of bond in its squad – family ties. For the first time in the team’s history, two sets of sisters were selected for the same tournament: the Metcalfe sisters, Nel and Branwen, and the Pyrs sisters, Gwenllian and Alaw. Both sisters hail from the same rugby community of Nant Conwy in North Wales.
The Metcalfe Sisters
The Metcalfe sisters, known for their relentless work ethic and physical presence on the field, have been fixtures in the regional rugby scene for years. Their combination of strength in the forward pack and speed on the outside makes them a versatile threat. Nel, 20 years old, made her debut on the national team in 2023 and plays fullback. Branwen, 18 years old, who plays as a center, captains the U20 national team, and this will be her debut on the senior team.
The Pyrs
The Pyrs sisters, equally formidable, bring tactical insight, quick decision-making, and an ability to turn defensive stands into attacking opportunities in seconds. Gwenllian, the elder sister, will make over forty appearances for the national team. She plays as a prop. Her younger sister, Alaw, made her debut for the Wales team last September. She is a forward.
Community Pride
For the local club of Nant Conwy, the selection is a reason to be proud. Having two families represented on the biggest stage is a source of immense pride for the community that has nurtured rugby talent for decades. Club members described the sisters as dedicated players from their youth days, often training together.
Team Dynamics
Wales’s coaching staff are excited about the psychological advantage of having the sisters on the team. Beyond their technical skills, their lifelong bond adds an extra layer of trust and communication—traits that can influence high-pressure matches.
Rugby World Cup
The Women’s Rugby World Cup is scheduled to take place from August 22 to September 27, 2025, in England.
