Rhys Patchell retires aged 32, immediately taking on URC coaching role

Dragons have named former Wales fly-half Rhys Patchell as their new kicking coach after he announced his retirement from professional rugby.

The 32-year-old will take on the role as a part-time consultancy role for the side that finished firmly at the base of the United Rugby Championship last season.

The 22-cap Wales international finished his career with Green Rockets Tokatsu in last season’s Japan Rugby League One, whom he joined after a season with the Highlanders in Super Rugby Pacific.

Prior to his move to New Zealand, Patchell enjoyed long stints with Cardiff and the Scarlets, winning the Pro12 with the latter in 2017.

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“I’m excited to have the opportunity to take on this new role at the Dragons,” the former fly-half said.

“Throughout my career I have been fortunate to have worked with some great coaches, and I hope to use all those experiences to help our players.

“I have loved getting on the field and working with our players as they develop their craft. The boys have worked hard in pre-season, and I’m looking forward to watching the growth in our squad.”

Dragons head coach Filo Tiatia added: “We’re delighted to welcome Rhys into our environment to for him to work with our squad.

“Rhys brings knowledge and experience after featuring at the highest level, playing not only in Wales but also in New Zealand with the Highlanders and most recently in Japan.

“Rhys is a young coach who us building a strong relationship with the players here and who we feel will continue to grow in the role and make an impact on the Dragons.”

Dragons gets their URC season underway against Ulster on September 26 following a busy summer where they recruited several Wales internationals, including Wyn Jones, Dillon Lewis, Seb Davies, Thomas Young and Mackenzie Martin.