CAPTAIN Carys Phillips insists Wales will head to Montpellier with a “no fear” approach when they open the Women’s Six Nations against Grand Slam winning France.

Wales endured a torrid tournament last year to finish bottom of the pile after losing every game following their narrow opening weekend win against Scotland.

However, they enjoyed a strong first autumn series in which they beat South Africa and Hong Kong and pushed Canada, ranked fourth in the world, all the way at Cardiff Arms Park.

That has provided a timely boost ahead of a daunting opener in France on Saturday (kick-off 8pm) against hosts who enjoyed a clean sweep in 2018.

Hooker Phillips said: "France will be a very tough game, especially away from home. We have a lot of young players in our squad, but they are hungry for that challenge.

"I feel we have made a massive step forward from this time last year and I'm also really excited to play in front of a massive crowd.

“It will be an excellent experience all round. There is absolutely no fear in our squad and that's brilliant for us."

France, ranked fourth in the world, triumphed 38-3 when the teams met in Colwyn Bay last year and will be expected to head to face England in a humdinger in Doncaster next week on the back of a win.

Captain Gaelle Hermet said: "Our match against Wales is our first and therefore most important. They will come with great commitment and determination.

"Wales will want to beat us in Montpellier and it will be a very complicated match but one we will be ready for."

Wales have replaced injured number eight Sioned Harries (ankle) with RGC’s Teleri Davies and Cardiff Blues prop Danielle Dinapoli replaces Brea Leung (shoulder).