Six Nations 2025: A Year of Ups and Downs for Wales Women’s Rugby. Wales’s women’s head coach Ioan Cunningham is on his way out after a rocky 2024. Marked by challenges on and off the field. Despite beginning the year with high hopes. The team achieved only four wins in 11 Test matches, prompting internal issues within the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU). Serious mismanagement during summer contract negotiations has added to the turmoil. And raising concerns about the future direction of Wales’ women’s rugby program. With only months before the 2025 Rugby World Cup, Wales faces significant challenges as Cunningham departs.
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WRU’s Leadership Decisions and the Impact on Players
Cunningham’s position became increasingly precarious following the WRU’s handling of contract discussions. Executive director of rugby, Nigel Walker, played a role in these discussions. But his standing within the organization also remains uncertain. Originally stepping into the women’s coaching role in 2021 after a stint with Scarlets and Wales Under-20s, Cunningham was expected to bring stability. However, his tenure has been marred by internal reviews, a high turnover of coaches, and WRU’s struggle to support its women’s program effectively.
In 2022, WRU took steps to address long-standing issues by awarding its first professional contracts, sparking optimism for the future. Under Cunningham’s leadership, Wales secured its best finish in the Women’s Six Nations in over a decade, with victories over Ireland and Scotland. This promising period saw Wales rise to a sixth-place world ranking and earn a place in WXV1, a new global women’s rugby competition.
The Highs of 2023 Six Nations and Growing Support
The pinnacle of Cunningham’s career came during the 2023 Six Nations. With over 30 players on full-time deals, Wales dominated Ireland, Scotland, and Italy, showing flashes of potential. Their success led to unprecedented support and a growing fan base. However, on their subsequent return to New Zealand for WXV1, the team faced harsh defeats against world leaders, showcasing the gap between Wales and top-tier teams. Yet, their determination to play elite teams underlined the ambition of both the squad and their coach.
The 2024 Six Nations and Contract Controversies
The 2024 Six Nations, however, was a stark contrast. Wales suffered disappointing losses, managing only one victory against Italy, and ended with the “wooden spoon.” Despite qualifying for WXV2 and an encouraging win over Australia in a friendly. And poor performance in South Africa left them falling short of expectations. Recent revelations about contract disputes, including an email. Where players were reportedly given only three hours to accept offers, exposed the intense pressures they faced.
WRU chairman Richard Collier-Keywood acknowledged the impact of contract-related stress on player performance. “There was a lot of stress involved in the process which was unnecessary,” he said, highlighting the need for improved management.
Wales’ Future as They Prepare for the Six Nations 2025
Now ranked 10th worldwide, Wales heads into the 2025 Women’s Six Nations with substantial challenges. Although they boast 37 full-time contracted players. Restoring confidence will be essential as they look to host England at the Principality Stadium. This upcoming match, anticipated to draw a record crowd, could provide Wales with an opportunity to redefine their narrative.
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With the 2025 Rugby World Cup drawing closer, where they are grouped with Canada, Scotland, and Fiji in Pool B, Wales has limited time to address internal issues and regain stability. The road to success in Six Nations Rugby 2025 will be a critical juncture for Welsh rugby.
Six Nations 2025 Rugby: Wales Ready to Rise Again
Wales’ Tough Journey Through 2024
In what has been a challenging year for Welsh rugby, the national team finds itself eager to break a tough losing streak. Wales finished the year without a single Test win, having endured nine consecutive defeats since their last victory over Georgia in the 2023 World Cup. This difficult phase not only led to an early World Cup exit but also a disappointing last-place finish (Wooden Spoon) in the Six Nations, culminating in a record-low 11th world ranking.
Despite the setbacks, this year has also been marked by a critical rebuilding phase under head coach Warren Gatland. Thirteen uncapped players joined the squad, contributing to a squad transformation. But according to veteran lock Will Rowlands, the time for rebuilding has passed—it’s now time for Wales to show maturity on the international stage.
“School Time is Over”: Rowlands’ Rallying Cry for Wales
Will Rowlands, the eldest forward in the current Welsh squad, expressed confidence in Wales’ potential to turn things around as they approach Six Nations 2025. He believes the team is ready to show the results of this intense period of growth. Gatland’s revamped lineup, aimed at cultivating young talent, has gradually transformed into a more battle-ready force.
Rowlands emphasized the sense of accountability within the squad. “The message from day one in this camp has been that school time is over. There’s a hard edge in training, and everyone is aware of the challenges ahead.” This change in tone signifies a shift in focus. As Wales aims to transition from a development phase to a mindset of competing—and winning—at the top level.
Returning to the Fold: Rowlands’ Road Back to the Pitch
Following a long season and a move to French club Racing 92, Rowlands took a summer break. This time off has helped him return with fresh energy and enthusiasm for the sport. Reinforced by the positive environment within the squad. At 33, Rowlands also feels a growing responsibility to mentor the younger players, an expectation he has embraced with enthusiasm.
Reflecting on his path to becoming a pivotal member of the Welsh team. Rowlands described his journey as a late bloomer. Having joined the squad relatively late at 28. The Rowlands is regarded as a leader and has even been touted as the “next Alun Wyn Jones.” He credits his father’s encouragement for helping him pursue his rugby ambitions, which took precedence over a career in finance.
Six Nations Rugby 2025: Wales’ Next Chapter
The 2025 Six Nations Rugby championship presents Wales with a fresh opportunity to reclaim their standing. With seasoned players like Rowlands leading the way and a squad bolstered by youth and experience. And Wales hopes to reassert itself as a formidable contender on the international rugby stage, after a year of hard lessons and growth. The Welsh team is ready to prove that the past struggles were only a stepping stone to greater achievements.
As Rowlands and his team prepare to kick off their Six Nations campaign. They carry the hopes of Welsh fans, eager for a victorious return. The journey has been difficult, but the determination within the squad signals a strong comeback in the making for 2025.
Also Read: Six Nations Rugby 2025: England’s Path to Redemption
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