Tuipulotu can be world's best, says Wales head coach Cunningham

Ioan Cunningham has backed Sisilia Tuipulotu to build on her Player of the Match performance against Ireland and become ‘one of the best props in the world'. Tuipulotu was as influential in attack as she was in defence in Wales' TikTok Women's Six Nations opener, crossing for her side's fifth and final try in the 31-5 win. Ad The 19-year-old Gloucester-Hartpury forward has made the switch to the front row from lock and looked at home, missing only one tackle as Wales gave their best-ever crowd at Cardiff Arms Park plenty to cheer.

RugbyWales too strong for Ireland in front of record home crowd2 HOURS AGO «I genuinely believe she can be one of the best props in the world,» Cunningham said. «She really showed what she can do. »Gwenllian [Pyrs] and Kelsey [Jones] were outstanding as well, big up to the front row.

«Up front, we had a great platform. We are delighted with the crowd, that gives us such a boost here. »We're chuffed with the game plan and we stuck at it." Tuipulotu made nine carries, the most of any Wales player, and insisted she is not interested in any other position following her seamless transition into the front row.

«I am always going to wear this shirt, this is the only shirt I want to wear!» she said. «It is always a tough process to transition from one position to another position. »But with the coaches that I have and the support that I have, I am enjoying it more and more now." Tuipulotu's star turn came to an end after 61 minutes as she was replaced by Cerys Hale but it was enough to see her claim the Player of the Match award in a match which saw Wales secure the bonus point inside 32 minutes.