Wales Prop Sisilia Tuipulotu Eyes Historic Lions Women’s Tour After Standout Win Over South Africa
Wales prop Sisilia Tuipulotu has identified selection for the inaugural British and Irish Lions Women’s tour in 2027 as a key personal goal following her impressive performance in Wales’ commanding 50-19 victory over South Africa in the 2026 WXV Global Series.
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Tuipulotu, 23, scored two tries in the match at Cardiff Arms Park on 18 September, helping Wales end a nine-match losing streak. Her powerful displays caught the attention of Lions head coach Jo Yapp, who was present to observe the game. While the final Lions squad will be announced in May 2027, Tuipulotu’s form has certainly put her on the radar for selection.
“It’s probably number one on my goal list right now, to perform the best I can to put my hand up for a spot on that team,” Tuipulotu said after the match. She was unaware of Yapp’s presence during the game but welcomed the opportunity to showcase her abilities in front of the Lions coaching staff.
The upcoming Lions Women’s tour, set for September 4 to 25, 2027, will be the first in the team’s history. The tour will take place in New Zealand and feature three Test matches against the Black Ferns, alongside fixtures against a Black Ferns XV and an Invitational XV. Players will be selected from England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, with England’s world champions expected to form a significant portion of the squad.
Jo Yapp, appointed head coach in May 2026, brings extensive experience from coaching roles across the UK and internationally, including leading Australia at the 2025 Rugby World Cup. She is tasked with assembling a competitive squad representing the best talent from the four home unions.
Tuipulotu’s rise has been notable since bursting onto the international scene during the 2023 Six Nations. After battling injuries and form challenges, she credits her recent pre-season preparation with Harlequins for her return to peak physical condition. Former Wales centre Jonathan Davies described her recent performance as “world class.”
Following the South Africa win, Wales prepare to face the USA in Cardiff on 26 September. The victory and Tuipulotu’s individual display have injected renewed confidence into the squad, which aims to continue improving ahead of future international challenges and the historic Lions tour.