Overview
- Wales named Keira Bevan to start at fly‑half for the first time and included three possible debutants in their matchday 23, a move meant to test a new halfback pairing and backline shape.
- South Africa overhauled their backline and shifted Logan Welman to start at No.8 while moving Aseza Hele to the bench, a change co‑coach Franzel September said is aimed at expanding the player base.
- England made nine changes to the Red Roses for their rematch with Canada, keeping an experienced 23 as coach John Mitchell framed the fixture as the first of three tests between the teams.
- Canada recalled Sophie de Goede to captain the side against England and she said the 2025 World Cup final still affects her sleep, underscoring the emotional and competitive stakes for the North Americans.
- Australia’s Wallaroos named Queensland Reds winger Piper Flynn on the bench as a likely debutant, and several unions are explicitly treating the WXV weekend, which kicks off with fixtures on Friday 18 September, as a platform to fast‑track international minutes and strengthen ties with professional club environments.