Wales stalwarts return in coaching capacity
NEWS: Wales received a massive boost with three former Test internationals joining the squad as assistant coaches.
Duncan Jones, Dan Lydiate and Rhys Patchell will return to Steve Tandy’s backroom team on an interim basis for the 2026 Six Nations.
All three were part of the Wales men’s coaching set-up for the four Nations Series matches at Principality Stadium last November.
Fifty-seven-cap and double Grand Slam winner Jones will again operate as scrum coach when he rejoins the Wales set-up this Championship.
Lydiate, who won 72 Wales caps, two Grand Slams and played in all three Tests for the British and Irish Lions on the 2013 tour to Australia, will continue to work closely with head coach Steve Tandy on defence during the campaign.
Patchell, who made 22 appearances for Wales between 2013 and 2023, including at Rugby World Cup 2019, resumes responsibility for kicking as skills coach for Wales this Six Nations.
Speaking about the update, Tandy said: “It’s great that Duncan, Dan and Rhys will be joining up with us again for the Six Nations and my thanks to the Ospreys and Dragons for allowing them this opportunity a second time.
“We’re all excited to get into camp next week and build on the foundations we established in the autumn.”
WRU director of rugby and elite performance Dave Reddin added: “Having Duncan, Dan and Rhys return to work alongside Steve, Danny and Matt allows us to maintain a good balance in the coaching team.
“That consistency and cohesion will help to continue to grow and develop the playing group.”
