Head coach Sean Lynn has introduced three personnel adjustments to his starting selection following September's narrow 24-26 defeat to the USA at Cardiff Arms Park. Among the changes, Nel Metcalfe recovers from injury to take her place on the wing, Seren Lockwood returns at scrum-half, and Jorja Aiono earns a starting spot at lock. Additionally, two positional shifts see Carys Cox move into the centre while Keira Bevan shifts to direct operations at fly-half.
Co-captaining the side alongside fellow back-row forward Kate Williams, Callender will lead the team out at the Prince Chichibu Memorial Stadium. Having made her international debut back in 2019, the 26-year-old reaches her half-century after successfully overcoming a series of injuries sustained before, during, and after the 2025 World Cup. Her return to top form included an impressive display in June's uncapped encounter against the Barbarians, a player-of-the-match performance against South Africa, and a try scored versus the USA.
Head coach Lynn praised the flanker's dedication, noting that her game has evolved beyond her renowned tackling and breakdown proficiency to encompass strong line-out operation and attacking contributions. By utilizing Callender effectively on the edges, the coaching staff aims to leverage her improved handling abilities to introduce an extra dimension to an expansive tactical strategy.
Bevan also resumes playmaking duties at fly-half after partnering effectively with Lockwood prior to the scrum-half suffering a head injury against South Africa. Lynn highlighted Bevan's desire to keep the ball moving and her maturing tactical kicking game, noting the positive impact both she and Lockwood bring to the half-back positions.
In the backline, the selection of the Metcalfe sisters marks a notable family milestone. Although lock Branwen previously came off the bench for her debut against Canada at the 2025 World Cup and both featured against the Barbarians, Saturday represents their inaugural Test match starting together. Branwen, 20, continues her run of consecutive starts alongside second-row partner Aiono, while 21-year-old Nel returns on the wing following a knee ligament injury that sidelined her throughout the Six Nations.
Ranked eleventh in the world standings—one position above their upcoming opponents—Wales are preparing for a disciplined challenge. Japan enter the fixture following recent results that included a 55-21 defeat against Italy alongside two hard-fought encounters with Ireland. Emphasizing the opposition's efficient mauling capabilities and structured approach, Lynn has opted for a six-forwards split on the replacements bench to maintain physical intensity throughout the contest.
https://www.bbc.com/sport/rugby-union/articles/crn4e0ywddxlo
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