Dragons Aim to Retain Veteran Flanker Lydiate for 2023-24 Season
Dragons head coach Dai Flanagan has assured that this weekend’s Judgement Day clash against Scarlets will not be the final game for veteran flanker Dan Lydiate. The 36-year-old, who re-joined the region on a one-year deal for the 2023-24 season, has been named among the replacements for the final United Rugby Championship (URC) match of the campaign.
Flanagan emphasized his desire to keep Lydiate at the Dragons, citing the invaluable experience and leadership the seasoned international can provide.
“This won’t be his last game, I can guarantee you that,” said Flanagan. “He is a player I don’t want to leave this region for multiple reasons – playing, experience, what he can bring off the field going forward.”
Lydiate, who has earned 69 caps for Wales and toured with the British and Irish Lions in 2013, initially started his professional career with the Dragons before stints with Racing Metro and Ospreys. Flanagan praised the player’s intelligence and the positive impact he has had on young talent like Ryan Woodman, who has benefited greatly from Lydiate’s mentorship.
The Dragons coach revealed that he and Lydiate are in discussions about a potential new contract, which could include a coaching role for the veteran flanker.
“Coaching is something that Dan is curious to see what it would be like. I’ve told him how good a coach he would be,” Flanagan said, acknowledging the need to develop more Welsh defensive coaches, an area where Lydiate’s expertise could prove invaluable.
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