INFLUENTIAL back row forward Siwan Lillicrap believes Wales Women are building nicely ahead of the Six Nations.

Lillicrap, who led Wales for four of their five November matches, was a key figure as her team recorded November wins over Celtic rivals Ireland and Scotland and a convincing victory over Crawshays at Ebbw Vale.

The series ended with a 29-15 defeat to an experienced Barbarians side at Principality Stadium, when they fought back with a spirited second half performance.

Wales are now preparing for the start of the Six Nations with the first assignment against Italy on Sunday, February 2 at Cardiff Arms Park.

"The whole series was hugely beneficial for us as a developing squad and the double-header at Principality Stadium was a great occasion and a great opportunity for the Wales Women to play in the national stadium," said Lillicrap.

"It was a huge boost for us as a team. Growing up I visited the national stadium on many occasions and I know the other girls did too. That's where you always want to play.

"We had so many new caps in the autumn campaign and for those players to have the opportunity to play on the big stage is massive.

"That memory will stay with us for a long time and I think it shows the route the Welsh Rugby Union are going down in terms of equality and giving us as a team good opportunities moving forwards.

"We'll cherish those memories. We're very excited for the Six Nations now."

The autumn campaign saw Wales blood a host of fresh faces and experienced forward Lillicrap, who now has 31 caps, is excited about the next generation coming through.

"We set out from the start of the autumn campaign to develop in many areas and give girls opportunities," she said. "We had 14 new caps and they took their opportunities.

"What I'm excited about is us putting together a full 80-minute performance and what the youngsters can do to the squad. Even though they have filled the jerseys, they've got more to give again.

"That showed in the squad we took into the Barbarians game. Seven of those 14 new caps represented the team that day so it shows our strength in depth is developing.

"I'm excited to see what this squad can do going into the Six Nations. We worked hard with the coaching staff and management throughout the autumn period. We've had a couple of weeks off and are raring to go again.

"I hope we can keep building on what we've already done and I know this squad can do that."