Watch Wales Women v France Women Live: Lloyd Lewis Presents BBC Coverage with Gareth Rhys Owen Calling the Action

Match date: 18 April 2026

Watch Wales Women v France Women Live: Lloyd Lewis Presents BBC Coverage with Gareth Rhys Owen Calling the Action

Today marks a thrilling clash in the Guinness Women's Six Nations as Wales Women host France Women at Cardiff Arms Park, kicking off at 3:35pm UK time. British rugby fans can catch every moment live on BBC One Wales (HD), BBC Two and HD, with expert presenter Lloyd Lewis at the helm, delivering top-tier coverage from the heart of Welsh rugby country.

The BBC's commitment to women's rugby shines through in this high-stakes Round 2 encounter, part of a packed Super Saturday schedule that also features Scotland v England and Ireland v Italy. Following Wales's narrow 19-24 defeat to Scotland in Round 1, the Dragonesses will be hungry for redemption against a formidable French side that dominated Italy 40-7 in their opener. Tune in via BBC iPlayer for seamless streaming, ensuring viewers across the UK, Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand don't miss the action.

Leading the commentary booth is the voice of Welsh rugby, Gareth Rhys Owen, a broadcaster with over two decades of experience calling games for S4C and the BBC. Owen's encyclopedic knowledge and passionate delivery have made him a staple for Six Nations audiences, having covered countless internationals and club matches. Joining him on co-commentary are two Welsh rugby legends: Siwan Lillicrap, the former Wales captain who amassed 111 caps and led the side to historic wins, including a Grand Slam in 2015; and Philippa Tuttiett, ex-Wales international and current coach whose insights from 68 caps and a coaching career with Worcester Warriors add tactical depth to the broadcast.

In the studio, Lloyd Lewis brings his charismatic style, honed through years presenting rugby on BBC Wales and S4C, including live coverage of major tournaments. He'll be joined by pundit Sioned Harries, a dynamic former Wales flanker with 30 caps, renowned for her explosive carries and now a respected analyst sharing her post-retirement expertise on channels like BBC and TNT Sports. Completing the panel is James Hook, one of Wales's most capped fly-halves with 81 Test appearances, whose fly-half mastery and current role as a pundit for Premier Sports and BBC promises sharp analysis on kicking battles and strategy.

This match at Cardiff Arms Park promises intensity, with referee Robbie Jenkinson overseeing proceedings alongside assistants Precious Pazani and Emily Hope. France enter as favourites after their emphatic Round 1 victory, but Wales, buoyed by home support, boast players like the pacey backs who troubled Scotland. Expect discussions on Wales's defensive resilience and France's powerful forward pack, key themes for our expert team.

For fans Down Under, the 15:35 UK kick-off translates to early evening viewing, perfect for Australian and New Zealand audiences following the tournament's global appeal. The Women's Six Nations continues to grow, with this fixture pivotal for championship positioning ahead of later rounds culminating on 17 May.

Don't forget, for more on the tournament's heritage, check out the official Six Nations Rugby site. Whether you're in Cardiff or watching from afar, settle in with the BBC team for what could be a defining moment in the 2026 campaign. Allez les Bleues or Cymru am byth – the stage is set!

Article generated: 18 April 2026, 15:39 GMT