Wales’ transformation began with a brutal pre-season during which Lynn secured the permanent services of assistant coaches Ashley Beck and Steve Salvin.
That, along with Tyrone Holmes’ growing impact as defence coach and the introduction of strength and conditioning specialist Gareth Harris, gave Wales some much-needed stability.
“We’ve all been really specific about what we want to do. We’ve established a DNA and I’m really proud of all the hard work – physical and mental – that not just the players have put in, but also the staff,” said Wales co-captain Kate Williams.
“It’s competitive within the team and that’s showing on the pitch as well against other teams.”
Lynn has capped 12 new players during his 18 months in charge and in doing so has unearthed gems such as Seren Lockwood, Branwen Metcalfe, Freya Bell and Amy Williams.
“It’s super important that we are always watching. Amy Williams for instance, what I saw of her at Cardiff Met and Brython Thunder, I really liked,” he said.
“She’s very brave, likes to get the ball in her hands and always wants to beat that first defender. Individuals like her and Freya Bell have been like ducks to water coming into the international arena and I believe there are more out there.
“The senior players are now having that competitive edge in the squad, and they know that the jersey is not theirs.”
Lynn has shown he is not afraid to make big selection calls and has backed the youngsters all summer, with the first glimpse of his new-look side coming in the 34-17 victory over Barbarians.
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