Lydiate staying put at Ospreys

THE Ospreys have handed a new contract to Dan Lydiate, reward for the Wales international’s outstanding performances in adversity this season.

The 32-year-old flanker has penned a deal that will keep him at the Liberty at least until 2022.

It’s recognition of the way Lydiate has fronted up to produce some of the best form of his career during a difficult campaign at the Liberty Stadium during which the Ospreys have won just two out of 18 matches.

Lydiate has been acting captain and rugby general manager Dan Griffiths acclaimed his combative qualities, saying: “Dan is a warrior who’s hugely respected at the club.

“He is a player who always sets very high standards, particularly for himself, and leads by example. In adversity this season he has really stood up and as always plays with complete commitment to the team.

“Being able to retain players like Dan is really important. His quality, experience and competitiveness will be crucial on the pitch, while such qualities also educate the young players on what being a top professional is all about.”

Lydiate may have slipped from Test contention but there haven’t been many better blindside-flanker performers in the entire PRO14 this season, with 152 tackles made and 70 carries. And the 67-cap player has impressed as a leader in Justin Tipuric’s absence.

Lydiate said: “Signing a new deal gives me security for my family and I am looking forward to where the Ospreys are now heading. It’s been a tough season, but hopefully we can get back to where we belong and I want to be a part of it. I have enjoyed being captain while Tips has been away.

“I still think I have a lot of rugby left in me in an Ospreys jersey. I have had a tough couple of years with injury and I am just enjoying playing back-to-back games. Competition brings the best out in me.”

Meanwhile, the Scarlets’ European Challenge Cup quarter-final against Toulon, scheduled for Friday, April 3, has been postponed because of the coronavirus outbreak.

MARK ORDERS