DAN Lydiate has made a return to the Welsh squad ahead of Sunday's Six Nations clash against Ireland in Cardiff.

The Abbey-cwm-hir raised blindside flanker has not represented Wales since 2018.

However coach Wayne Pivac as recognised the Ospreys star's form with a call up and will earn his 65th cap alongside former Lions back row team-mates Justin Tipuric and Taulupe Faletau.

"We are looking forward to kicking off our campaign this weekend and putting into action two really good training weeks," said Pivac.

"We made strides forward through the autumn and we are looking to take that into Sunday and into this tournament.

"The Six Nations is a fantastic tournament and is important for us rugby wise but it is important for so much more this year.

"It is important for communities across the country and we want to play our part and give everyone something to look forward to and to get excited about on the weekend."