Wales put to bed Dan Lydiate speculation with 'specialist' role

Dan Lydiate has been appointed to Wales’ men’s coaching set-up on a full-time basis in a specialist role focused on defensive contact skills.

Lydiate previously served in an interim capacity during the 2025 Quilter Nations Series and the 2026 Guinness Six Nations, but the new appointment clarifies the chop-tackle specialist’s exact role.

The 72-cap former international will take responsibility for “defensive contact skills, including technical development and delivery for tackle, assistant tackle and post-contact elements.”

He will work within Steve Tandy’s coaching group during camps alongside incoming defence coach Pete Murchie, while operating across the men’s game outside international windows.

He will formally begin the role this summer following the end of the BKT United Rugby Championship season, departing Dragons RFC where he is currently in a full-time coaching position.

As a player, Lydiate won a Grand Slam and was named Six Nations Player of the Championship in 2012. He also featured in all three Tests for the British and Irish Lions on their 2013 tour of Australia.

He began his coaching work in 2024 as a tackle-area specialist while still playing for the Dragons, before moving into a full-time role at the club after retiring during the 2025/26 season.

Tandy said: “It’s great to have Dan join us now on a full-time basis. He has done a really good job around the contact area but also with the mindset of the group.

“He has a very natural style and a huge amount to offer. I think he and Pete [Murchie] will really complement each other working together with the squad in camp. Beyond that, Dan’s approach and influence will be key in helping us develop players week-on-week outside of international windows.”

Lydiate added: “I have enjoyed my experience with Dragons first as a player-coach then as a full-time coach. I’ve learnt a huge amount and am grateful to have been able to combine my club coaching with an interim role with Wales this season.

“It’s an incredible honour to have the opportunity to move into a full-time role with Wales. I’m excited not only to continue working with Steve and the group, but also take on a broader remit to help with the development of players outside of camp as well.”

WRU director of rugby and elite performance Dave Reddin said: “We’re delighted to appoint Dan in this specialist role on a full-time basis. He’s added a lot of value already during two campaigns with the national squad and will now take a bigger role working throughout the year to ensure players’ continued progression and help support an aligned Welsh rugby DNA.”