Dan Lydiate ruled out of final match, ends playing career early

Dragons flanker Dan Lydiate has been ruled out of the final fixture of the 2024–25 season against the Vodacom Bulls after suffering a concussion in the team's recent clash against the DHL Stormers.

The incident marks an early end to the veteran’s playing career, just weeks before his planned retirement.

The 36-year-old was forced to leave the field in the first half of the match in Cape Town after a heavy collision resulted in what has been described as a "nasty concussion."

Following medical evaluation, Lydiate has returned home and will not be available for the closing game of the season in Pretoria.

Lydiate had previously announced his intention to retire from professional rugby at the end of this season and transition into a coaching role. The Dragons confirmed that his final appearance came prematurely due to the head injury.

Head coach Filo Tiatia expressed his admiration and gratitude for Lydiate's service, saying, “It is unfortunate for three senior players, particularly Dan who has been a real servant to the club and Wales. It was sadly his last game before he moves into coaching next season.”

Lydiate’s career includes 72 caps for Wales and a key role in the British & Irish Lions’ 2013 tour of Australia.

Known for his uncompromising defensive work and relentless commitment, Lydiate built a reputation as one of the most dependable and disciplined flankers of his generation.

In his final season, Lydiate also took on responsibilities as a player-coach at Dragons, mentoring younger players and contributing to the squad’s development both on and off the pitch.

Although his final appearance came under difficult circumstances, Lydiate’s influence on Welsh rugby and the Dragons will endure.