Dan Lydiate has been appointed to the Wales men’s coaching set up on a full-time basis as a specialist coach with responsibility for defensive contact skills, including technical development and delivery for tackle, assistant tackle and post-contact elements.
As well as being involved with Steve Tandy’s coaching team during national squad camps where he will work closely with incoming defence coach Pete Murchie, Lydiate’s role will see him operate across the men’s game outside international campaign windows to continue developing players.
The former Wales international previously worked as part of the Wales men’s set up on an interim basis during the 2025 Quilter Nations Series and the 2026 Guinness Six Nations.
Currently with Dragons RFC, Lydiate will start his new role with Wales this summer after the conclusion of the BKT United Rugby Championship season.
As a player Lydiate won 72 Wales caps, a Grand Slam and was Six Nations Player of the Championship in 2012. He featured in all three Tests for the British and Irish Lions on the winning 2013 tour to Australia.
Lydiate began his coaching career as a tackle area specialist while still playing for the Dragons in 2024. He then moved into a full-time coaching role with the club in the 2025/26 season following his retirement from playing.
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.”
Speaking about his appointment 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.”