The WXV Global Series match between Japan and Wales was halted during the second half after Wales centre Freya Bell sustained a serious leg injury. Play was suspended for more than six minutes while medical staff from both teams treated Bell on the pitch at Prince Chichibu Memorial Stadium in Tokyo.
Incident at 52 minutes
With Wales leading 7-0 at 52 minutes, Bell collapsed clutching her leg following a clear-out at a ruck. Play initially continued around her as she remained on the ground in visible distress, with a Wales medic attending to her. The referee then called a stoppage to allow treatment.
BBC Wales commentator Gareth Rees Owen said: "Freya Bell looks in some real discomfort there." He added: "Her right knee I think? Oh no. Just a horrible sight. We may be a while here now."
Players and commentators react
Owen continued: "Our concerns are now with Freya Bell. Oh goodness." Co-commentator and former Wales international Philippa Tuttiett added: "They do seem to be isolating that knee. Such a young player as well."
Wales co-captain Alex Callender, marking her 50th cap, was seen consoling her team-mate as medical staff worked to help Bell, who was in agony on the floor. Tuttiett noted: "Absolutely not (good to see)... Especially for the players left on the field, seeing your team-mate go down like that."
Bell stretchered off
Following the lengthy delay, Bell was carried off the pitch on a stretcher and was substituted by Courtney Keight. Wales had taken the lead through Seren Lockwood's opening try, which Bell converted in the first half. The injury will be a major worry for Wales head coach Sean Lynn.
