Wales legend makes retirement call as future coaching career awaits
Dan Lydiate in action for Wales.
Wales and Dragons legend Dan Lydiate has announced that he will hang up his boots at the end of this season, bringing down the curtain on an impressive rugby career.
The British and Irish Lions tourist, who played his 100th game for the Dragons this season during his second spell at the club, has been an ultra consistent player.
Lydiate made his debut for the Dragons almost two decades ago in 2006/07 – and is one of the finest and most destructive flankers ever to represent his country.
72 Wales caps
Famed for his chop tackle, the 37-year-old will finish his career having won 72 caps for Wales alongside three Test appearances for the 2013 British and Irish Lions.
Additionally, the former Rhayader RFC and Pontypool United youth player, made 90 appearances for the Ospreys while also spending a spell in France with Racing 92.
Lydiate’s stellar career has seen him take part in three World Cups, along with two Six Nations winning campaigns, being crowned Player of the Championship in 2012.
This URC season has seen back-row Lydiate take on the role as breakdown coach at the Welsh region as he balanced his playing career with his coaching aspirations.
The vastly experienced international will now continue in that coaching capacity – and maintain his strong association with Dragons RFC – into the 2025/26 season.
“I have got a lot of respect for Dan, he has got a large amount of grace and humility and he works hard,” said Dragons head coach Filo Tiatia about his retiring player.
“A British and Irish Lion, played for Wales, had a nasty injury and came through to become the person he is today.
“He’s been awesome to work with and we’re really looking forward to seeing him going back to the Ospreys on the weekend and enjoy the moments at his old stomping ground and leave some fingerprints on his last game in Wales.”
Stellar career
Dragons CEO Rhys Blumberg said: “Dan has had a stellar career and has been an inspiration to Dragons players and fans both young and old for the best part of two-decades.
“His career has been grounded in hard work and professionalism and a leader both on and off the pitch.
“We thank him for his enduring commitment to the club as a player and look forward to his future coaching career.”
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