**Rhys Patchell Returns to Wales to Embark on Coaching Career with Dragons**
Welsh rugby is set to benefit from the experience of former international Rhys Patchell, who has accepted a coaching position with the Dragons. The 32-year-old, known for his tactical nous and kicking precision, is stepping into the next phase of his rugby journey, offering his expertise as a dedicated kicking coach for the Gwent-based club. This development marks Patchell’s first formal move into coaching, although he has not yet officially brought his playing days to a close.
Having spent recent seasons plying his trade overseas—first with the Highlanders in New Zealand’s Super Rugby competition and later with NEC Green Rockets Tokatsu in Japan—Patchell has once again returned to Welsh soil. His homecoming sees him take on a part-time coaching role, working with the Dragons’ squad two days a week to develop and sharpen their kicking game. Key beneficiaries of his guidance will include new signing Tinus de Beer, fly-half Cai Evans, and Wales Under 20s’ promising outside-half, Harri Ford.
This appointment comes at a pivotal time for the Dragons, who are seeking to bounce back after a challenging 2024/25 campaign. The side managed only two victories throughout a difficult season, prompting significant changes over the summer both in terms of player personnel and backroom staff. Club management will be hoping that Patchell’s arrival triggers a transformation in one of their most problematic areas: goal-kicking accuracy and overall kicking strategy.
Patchell carries an impressive playing pedigree, having represented Wales on numerous occasions and spent time with both Cardiff and the Scarlets domestically. It was with the Scarlets that he enjoyed one of his finest seasons, guiding the side to a memorable PRO12 title in 2017 under Wayne Pivac’s leadership. His reputation as a meticulous thinker and a skilled craftsman on the field has led many to predict a smooth transition into coaching.
Beyond his on-field contributions, Patchell has, in recent times, established himself as a respected voice in the media. Regular appearances as a pundit on S4C and the BBC’s “Scrum V” have allowed him to maintain a high profile within rugby circles, providing insightful analysis drawn from a wealth of high-level experience.
The Dragons’ rebuild ahead of the new season is characterised by notable new arrivals. Ex-Wales internationals Wyn Jones and Dillon Lewis join the club, as do fellow Welshmen Seb Davies, MacKenzie Martin, and Thomas Young. The club have also strengthened with talented young prospects like Wales U20s captain Harry Beddall and have dipped into the international market, recruiting Tonga backs Fetuli Paea and Fine Inisi, as well as Levi Douglas, a Welsh-qualified lock arriving from French outfit Biarritz.
Head coach Dai Flanagan and his backroom staff are hopeful that the injection of fresh talent, complemented by Patchell’s precise kicking acumen, will provide the Dragons with the tools needed to turn their fortunes around. Improving the efficiency and reliability of their kicking has become a priority, particularly given recent struggles in this area.
Patchell now joins the ranks of esteemed Welsh kicking specialists who have taken their knowledge abroad, following the likes of Leigh Halfpenny, now a kicking coach in Japan, and renowned Wales coach Neil Jenkins. His entrance into the coaching sphere is being watched with great interest, given his thoughtful approach to the game and reputation as a diligent student of rugby tactics.
As the Dragons look ahead to the upcoming season, the spotlight will be firmly on Patchell and whether his expertise can inspire a new era of kicking excellence at Rodney Parade. With Welsh rugby placing a greater emphasis than ever on nurturing young talent while leveraging the wisdom of experienced internationals, Patchell’s arrival could prove a pivotal moment in the region’s revival.