‘It’s not every day you see international teams training and competing on our doorstep’

The Under-20s Six Nations Summer Series has drawn to a close in Ystrad Mynach – with unbeaten France coming out as victors at the Centre for Sporting Excellence.

Following a successful inaugural event in Italy last year, the women’s competition came to Wales this summer – with Ystrad Mynach hosting all three rounds of the competition.

The tournament featured predominantly under-20s squads from Wales, England, France, Ireland, Italy, and Scotland, with teams permitted to include up to five under-23s players per matchday squad.

All fixtures were free to attend, allowing residents to witness international-level rugby up close and support the future stars of the sport.

The event has been praised by organisers Caerphilly County Borough Council and Six Nations Rugby Ltd.

Alice O’Callaghan, of Six Nations Rugby Ltd, said: “The team at the Centre of Sporting Excellence were outstanding to work with and the facilities provided a high-performance environment for our teams.

“The warm welcome from the local community made this a memorable experience for all involved.”

She added: “The Summer Series is a key step in the development of the next generation of international players, and Caerphilly has played a central role in making that possible.”

Cllr Chris Morgan, Caerphilly Council’s cabinet member for leisure, said the tournament had been a “brilliant event for Caerphilly”.

He continued: “It’s not every day you see international teams training and competing on our doorstep, and I’m proud of the role our staff, facilities and community played in making it happen.

“The Centre for Sporting Excellence delivered a professional and welcoming experience throughout, and it’s clear this tournament will leave a legacy for women’s sport locally and nationally.”

Tournament results

Matchday 1 – Saturday July 5

• France 46-5 Italy
• Wales 10-29 Ireland
• England 31-17 Scotland

Matchday 2 – Friday July 11

• Italy 20-36 England
• Ireland 12-41 France
• Scotland 29-52 Wales 

Matchday 3 – Thursday July 17

• Scotland 7-62 Ireland 
• Wales 24 – 28 Italy
• France 52-39 England