FORMER Dragons and Newport wing Gareth Wyatt has joined the Wales Women management team for the Six Nations, writes Chris Kirwan.

With assistant coach Nick Wakley fully immersed in the sevens side of the women’s rugby programme, boss Rowland Phillips turned to Wyatt to provide some attacking insight.

The 40-year-old, who scored 29 tries in 109 appearances for the Dragons and then was to the fore in the Black and Ambers’ fine 2009/10 British & Irish Cup campaign, will carry out the role alongside his commitments with Pontypridd in the Principality Premiership.

“When I was first asked if I’d be interested in the job, I went away and thought about it,” said Wyatt.

“But really, it was a no-brainer. To be involved in the Six Nations at any level, playing or coaching, is such a great opportunity.”

“Ponty have been really supportive of my work with Wales Women. Without that I wouldn’t have been able to do it, because I’ve got a pretty big workload already.”

Wyatt, who is also rugby coach at Coleg y Cymoedd, is impressed by the talent at his disposal as Wales prepare to open their campaign against Scotland in Colwyn Bay on Friday night as part of a double-header with the Under-20s.

“I had a couple of meetings with Rowland and watched some footage,” said Wyatt.

“It’s quite exciting where the women’s game in Wales is going in the next four years and beyond. It’s a growing game, and I’m happy to be part of it.

“There are some exciting young players coming through, especially in the wide channels. We’re looking to develop a game where we can identify the space into which we can put our back three players.

“Given half a chance, these girls can score tries. Players like Jess Kavanagh-Williams, who scored a couple against Ireland, really showed what they can do.

“There are a lot of quality back-three players, so it’s exciting from that point of view to work with them.”

Wales play Scotland and France in Colwyn Bay and Italy in round four is at Principality Stadium at 11.45am before the men’s game.