Stella Orrin Targets First Wales Cap After Barbarians Debut

BBC Sport reports that 20-year-old prop Stella Orrin is aiming to earn her first official Wales cap during this autumn’s WXV Global Series. Orrin made her senior debut from the bench when Wales defeated the Barbarians at Twickenham in June, but that fixture was not a capped Test match.

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Orrin is taking part in Wales’ pre-season programme as head coach Sean Lynn prepares to reduce his extended training squad. Wales are scheduled to open their WXV campaign against South Africa on 18 September before also playing the United States and Japan. Her place in the final group, and a first cap, remain to be decided.

The tight-head said the Barbarians appearance was the best day of her life and described the pride she felt during the national anthem. She also recalled becoming overwhelmed when Lynn informed her that she had made the matchday squad, prompting the coach to contact her again to ensure she had understood the news.

Orrin represented Wales at under-18 and under-21 level before joining the senior environment. She played for Brython Thunder in the Celtic Challenge last season and is now in her second year of training with the national squad. She credited experienced Wales players including Donna Rose and Gwen Crabb with helping her adjust from age-grade rugby.

Her route into the sport began at 13, inspired by her father’s involvement in social rugby in the Welsh valleys. Orrin said she also took up the cello because she wanted to follow his example. Her parents attend her matches, and her family travelled to Six Nations fixtures even when she served only as a travelling reserve.

Orrin’s mother is French, but the prop spoke of her strong connection to Wales and the welcome her family received there. She said she trusts the coaches and is prepared to wait for her opportunity, while acknowledging how much a first cap would mean. Selection for the South Africa opener would turn her emotional senior introduction into an official international appearance.