A HOST of new faces have been revealed as Worcester Warriors Women get set for the 2019/20 Tyrrells Premier 15s season.
Ireland international hooker Sarah Mimnagh has been recruited from league rivals Richmond, Wales lock Gwen Crabb from Ospreys, Wales Sevens wing Caitlin Lewis from Scarlets, England Under-20 centre Jade Shekells from Gloucester-Hartpury and back-row forward Bryony Narbeth from Cheltenham Tigers.
However, Warriors will be saying farewell to their captain and England international hooker Lark Davies who has decided to leave.
Director of rugby Roy Davies revealed he was disappointed to lose Lark Davies but proud of the role Warriors had played in developing her into an international hooker.
“It’s always disappointing to see a player leave but I can’t fault Lark’s efforts in the time that I have been here. She has been excellent for us and I wish her well” Roy Davies said.
“It’s been great to see her grow into a fully-fledged international player and I’m extremely proud of the role the club has played in that development. It’s been a massive endorsement of the quality of our programme at Worcester Warriors Women.”
Mimnagh, who has also been represented the Army, was born in Worcester and began her rugby career at Sixways and was part of Worcester’s Women’s Premiership-winning side in 2013.
“It’s great to bring a player of Sarah’s quality back to the club and I’m looking forward to working with her. As well as her obvious on-field talent, she will add lots off-field as well with her experience and leadership,” Davies said.
Crabb, who has six Wales caps as well as being a current sevens international, joins her compatriots Jasmine Joyce, Alex Callender, Alisha Butchers, Sioned Harries, Kenzie Tutton and Millie Williams at Sixways.
Shekells, who previously played under Davies for Bristol, hails from Droitwich and came through the junior section at Worcester.
Lewis, who was part of Wales’ squad for last season’s Women’s Six Nations, plays her club rugby for Penybanc and Narbeth has been on Davies’ radar for some time.
“Caitlin is a young player with the physical attributes to be a real threat, as demonstrated by her international selection.
“I’m sure she will thrive in our environment and I’m looking forward to getting the opportunity to work with her,” he said.