Emotional Homecoming for Cardiff-Born Star

England center Meg Jones prepares for an emotionally charged Six Nations clash against Wales at Cardiff's Principality Stadium - her first international appearance since losing both parents within months of each other. The 28-year-old Leicester Tigers playmaker will channel her grief into performance, visualizing her parents' presence in the crowd.

Battling Personal Tragedy

Jones revealed to BBC Sport:

• Her father succumbed to lung cancer in summer 2023
• Her mother passed away just four months later
• This match coincides with her first Mother's Day without parents

"They'll be in the crowd cheering me on like always," said Jones. "I've learned to see them in a different light now."

From Grief to Advocacy

The 21-cap international has transformed personal tragedy into purpose:

• Now serves as patron for The Living Room charity
• Helps others battling addiction (her mother struggled with alcoholism)

"Navigating addiction alone is impossible," Jones emphasized. "I'm proud to help provide the guidance my mother needed."

Mitchell's Revamped Lineup

Coach John Mitchell makes 13 changes from England's opening 38-5 win over Italy:

• Returns core of last year's Grand Slam-winning squad
• Reinstates 2023 World Player of the Year Ellie Kildunne at fullback

Jones praised her teammate: "Ellie sees the game differently - that 1% genius. She carries the team sometimes, but we've got her back."

Matchday Essentials

Women's Six Nations: Wales v England
📅 Date: Saturday, 29 March
⏰ Kick-off: 16:45 GMT
📺 Coverage: BBC Two, iPlayer, BBC Sport website/app
🎧 Radio: BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra

Inspirational Resilience

Jones' journey epitomizes the warrior spirit of rugby:

• Playing through profound personal loss
• Converting pain into positive social impact
• Maintaining elite performance standards

Her story adds deeper meaning to this historic rivalry match.