The Barbarians are assembling a powerful side to take on the Wales Women’s team at the Allianz Stadium, Twickenham, on Saturday 27 June with one of the world’s most iconic players their first pick.
World Champion and Olympic Gold Medallist Ruby Tui was the first name on the teamsheet for the uncapped fixture, allowing her to add the honour of representing the Baa-Baas to her illustrious playing cv.
The fixture is part of a double header as the Barbarians men’s and women’s teams take on Wales in what is set to be showcase of rugby.
Led by coaches Susie Appleby and Sarah Hunter, the women’s Baa-Baas squad will feature a host of players boasting proven international experience from England, Scotland, Wales, Spain, Italy, Australia and the United States.
International front row experience and depth have been announced with Bryony Cleall (England), Christine Belisle (Scotland), Laura Delgado (Spain), Charlie Jacobi (USA), and Carys Phillips (Wales) all named. Phillips has represented Wales at four World Cups, captained her country and won 87 caps.
She will become the 11th Welsh player to represent the women’s Barbarians as she follows in the footsteps of Sian Moore, Snowy, Rachel Taylor, Abi Meyrick, Jasmine Joyce, Cerys Hale, Ellen Evans, Kath Evans, Katrin Edwards and Alisha Joyce.
England international Poppy Leitch, Italy’s Ilaria Arrighetti and Australia’s Emily Chancellor (Australia) are among further forwards named. Behind the scrum there are two Scottish scrum halves included to date in Caity Mattinson and Jenny Maxwell, while among the threequarters named so far at Lagi Tuima (England), Claudia Pena (Spain) and Lori Cramer (Australia).
“It is great to be able to name so many experienced international players in this latest squad announcement,” said Barbarian FC women’s lead Fiona Stockley.
“The lure of the Barbarians is second to none and we have players from across the globe who are excited to wear the famous black and white jersey at Allianz and take on Wales in just under three weeks.
“We would like to thank all the clubs and Unions who we have worked with on selecting these players and we look forward to announcing the final squad next week”
The Barbarians Women’s fixture kicks off at 5pm at Allianz Stadium on Saturday 27 June, following on from the Barbarians Men’s fixture against Wales which takes place at 2.00pm.
Tickets for Barbarians v Wales Double Header – Allianz Stadium – Twickenham
27 June are available via Ticketmaster.co.uk and England Rugby, starting from just £20* for adults and £10* for under-16s. Hospitality packages are also available from £179+VAT PP, visit www.allianzstadiumtwickenham.com
*Booking fees apply.