Wednesday Round-Up

Contract for Lydiate: After months of bitter negotiations and much drama around the domestic game in Wales, it has been confirmed today that a plethora of Welsh players have been offered dual contracts with the regions and national union, including back rower Dan Lydiate. Star of the 2011 World Cup in New Zealand, Lyidate found himself on the way to French big spenders Racing Metro, but has failed to live up to expectations since landing in the French capital. Having left Racing last month, after fearing a lack of game time with the Parisian outfit may damage his chances of playing in the showpiece event in England next year, Lydiate has now been confirmed as one of the key international players offered dual contracts by the Welsh Rugby Union. With Sam Warburton the first to have been awarded one, the rumour mill has begun to circulate a whole host of names supposedly set to be offered, with Dragons boss Lyn Jones adding fuel to the fire, suggesting that his trio of Taulupe Faletau, Hallam Amos and Tyler Morgan will all receive offers. Elsewhere, it is expected that Alun Wyn Jones, Jake Ball, Alex Cuthbert and Dan Biggar will be offered contracts, alongside Gareth Anscombe, who qualifies for Wales due to his grandomother’s heritage.

Blow for Warriors: Glasgow Warriors have been dealt a tough blow to their midfield options, after it emerged that Scotland international centre Mark Bennett will be forced to sit on the sidelines for the coming 12 weeks. Having been assisted off the field in the first half of Scotland’s courageous performance against the All Blacks last weekend, Bennett was immediately taken to hospital, where the full extent of the hamstring injury was determined. Despite not requiring surgery to repair the damage, Bennett will need to spend a lengthy time period in rehabilitation, leading to the Warriors opting to bring in Scottish back Fraser Lyle from Sitrling County on a short term deal. Bennett made his international debut for Scotland in this year’s November series opener against Argentina.

Ryan Sheady