Wales tight-head prop Sisilia Tuipulotu dominated the scrum as Wales secured a 17-0 victory over Japan's Sakura Fifteen in the first Test of the WXV Global Series at Tokyo's Prince Chichibu Memorial Stadium.
The 23-year-old, who spent three childhood years in Japan while her father Sione played for Yokogawa Musashino Atlastars (2006-2010), returned to Tokyo for the first time since leaving. Tuipulotu, standing 5ft 9ins and weighing 17st 6lbs, played 78 minutes and credited her teammates and strength and conditioning work for her endurance.
Lions ambition and squad depth
Tuipulotu is among Wales' contenders for the British and Irish Lions tour to New Zealand next year. Coach Sean Lynn has been promoting young talent, with second-row pair Jorja Aiono and Branwen Metcalfe (combined 15 caps) starting in Tokyo. Metcalfe, 20, highlighted the pathway system that brought through four Nant Conwy players — herself, sister Nel Metcalfe, Gwenllian Pyrs and Elan Jones — and praised the blend of experience and youth in the squad.
Wales face Japan again on 31 October at Kumagaya Rugby Stadium in Saitama Prefecture.
