Wales boss Sean Lynn is feeling the pain after the Six Nations wooden spoon

Former Gloucester-Hartpury boss Lynn pointed to the absence of five key players – Alex Callender, Kate Williams, Gwen Crabb, Nell Metcalf and Lisa Newman – which affected Wales’ strength and depth.

These injuries contributed to subdued performances after a narrow opening loss to Scotland and spirited displays against France and England.

“We can be really proud of the first three games but we have to be better than the last two,” admitted captain Bethan Lewis.

“It’s completely within our control. It makes sure we work on it when we’re not in this environment, not just when we come in for seven or eight weeks. We have to do that consistently throughout the year.”

Wales can feel the gap closing but there is still plenty of work to do to consistently contend with Scotland, Ireland and Italy, let alone the French and English.

“It’s disappointing to come off a result like this when we know we have the potential to be better,” Lewis said.

“There is progress across the board, everyone is improving so we have to learn quickly.”

Wales face the Barbarians in a double header with Steve Tandy at Twickenham on Saturday, June 27.

That fixture is the day before the Premiership Women’s Rugby Final, which will further hurt Lynn’s resources.