Lydiate doubtful for Italy clash
Wales flank Dan Lydiate could miss the defending champions' Six Nations opener after flying back to Paris to be with his pregnant fiancée.
The Racing Metro back row was included in the starting line-up to face Italy in Cardiff this weekend and expects to rejoin the squad in time.
However, he will be replaced by regular captain Sam Warburton should he be unavailable.
"We always stress how important family is in the squad," Wales coach Warren Gatland told WRU TV.
"His fiancée has gone into labour and we have spoken to him about that and told him to take a few days.
"If he gets back tomorrow, Thursday or even Friday we can accommodate being without him for a couple of days
"We have told him to take a weekend and come back next week but he is adamant he wants to play.
"Fingers crossed it's not a false alarm and he has gone back to Paris for the birth of his child."
