Wales are in a state of anxiety as they await news on the injury sustained by co-captain Alex Callender, just weeks before the Rugby World Cup. The influential number eight was forced off the field merely four minutes into Wales' 36-5 second Test defeat in Sydney, following a collision that twisted her foot.

Callender, 25, managed to limp off the field and later returned to the sidelines on crutches. "She will go for a scan as soon as possible," stated Wales head coach Sean Lynn. "She's in a boot, we'll see what happens after the scan and go from there. I'll probably be able to give you a better update next week."

Lynn expressed his concern but remained hopeful, "I've spoken to her, she's obviously upset, however she seems all good about herself, so fingers crossed."

With the World Cup squad announcement scheduled for August 11, and their first match against Scotland set for August 23 in Manchester, Callender's injury could significantly impact the team's strategy. Her performance in the first Test in Brisbane was stellar, leading the team with 24 tackles, 16 carries, and three turnovers.

Fellow co-captain Kate Williams shared her disappointment, "I'm gutted for her, we were both excited to come into this game to see how we were going to work together for the World Cup. But it's rugby and things happen. Hopefully we'll get to do it a bit more in training and take it into Scotland."

The team and fans alike are now holding their breath, hoping for positive news on Callender's condition as the Rugby World Cup looms closer.