Nikita Prothero represented England at age-grade level
Wales' newest cap Nikita Prothero admits to being an introvert with a slight tattoo addiction.
Of the 25 inked on her body. the England-born utility back proudly points to the one across her forearm which bears the Welsh word "hiraeth".
It can have a few translations, but for Prothero it represents a longing for home and a longing for Wales.
"My whole family lives in Wales,. my parents moved to London when they were growing up so we were kind of the English of the Welsh," she said.
Prothero represented England Under-18s. 20s, and despite the lure of playing for the world's best side, she chose the three feathers over the Red Roses.
"The switch to Wales was kind of non-negotiable in terms of where my journey was at. the relationship I already had with Lynny [Wales head coach Sean Lynn] from being at Hartpury College," Prothero said.
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Prothero joined Sale Sharks three years ago,. has played most of her rugby for Gwalia Lightning in the Celtic Challenge this season.
"I was unhappy with my game time at Sharks, " she said.
"The season before I played about 20 games. this year I was only on my second so I was - not disappointed because obviously the PWR is world class - but I wanted more from myself as a 23-year-old.
"I want to be playing rugby week-in. week-out and the Championship in England just doesn't provide that kind of level at the moment."
Prothero's performances for Lightning were enough to impress Lynn, who included her as one of nine uncapped players in his Six Nations squad,. she made her debut on the wing in theaway defeat by Ireland last Saturday.
Guinness Women's Six Nations
Sunday, 17 May, kick-off 12:15 BST
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Nikita Prothero made this season's Celtic Challenge play-offs with Gwalia Lightning
"Getting a cap is unbelievable. I didn't really expect it this early on, especially with the Six Nations being the hardest tournament," Prothero said.
"I was absolutely buzzing and getting my cap in front of my family, my friends, it was really special.
"I'm really happy that he [Lynn] has a belief in me and obviously sees something in me."
Prothero hopes to push for selection in Wales' final Six Nations game at home to Italy on Sunday (12:15 BST),. recognises she may have to bide her time.
"I think they're looking at me as a full-back which might not suit me in terms of getting caps. Kayleigh's [Powell] playing out of her skin," she said.
"We're very different, she has a kicking game. I'm never going to outdo her on that because I'm just not a playmaker, but I do back myself in terms of my confidence to beat people and my aerial stuff.
"I don't mind not playing as long as everyone has confidence in the people who are playing. I'm doing what's best for the squad.
"If I'm not best for the squad right now, I hope I will be soon."
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