David Lyons is a humble, quietly spoken man, whose contribution to Australian Rugby has been enourmous, amassing 106 matches for NSW and 44 Tests for Australia. The Big fella is now embarking on a new challenge, playing for Welsh club Llanelli.

 

What would you consider to be your greatest highlights over the last decade as a professional rugby player?

 

Helping to take the Waratahs from underachiever status to being a finals side on a number of occasions.  We proved some people wrong by turning things around in 2002 and we did the same again this year.  That is something I’m very proud of.  Also, being part of the 2003 World Cup team in Australia was a memorable experience that I’ll never forget.

 

You’ve recently entered into an exclusive group of players that have played over 100 games for the Waratahs.  How has this made you feel?

 

I never really thought I’d achieve such a feat when I started.  It’s been a great honour to be part of such a team and to have played so many games is such a bonus.

 

Who has been you toughest opponent over the years?

 

Without doubt, it would the New Zealanders and more specifically the Crusaders.  They just play a brand of rugby that is so difficult to contain.

 

What about toughest individual opponent?

 

Richie Mc Caw and Jerry Collins stand out as the toughest backrowers I’ve faced up against.

 

Most respected teammate?

 

Definitely Phil Waugh. We’ve played so many games together and he’s been an inspiration to my career. He is also an inspiration to the careers of many other players I’m sure.

 

How do you see the Waratahs performing next year in the absence of yourself, Dan Vickerman and Rocky Elsom?

 

I think they’ll go really well actually, and probably better than some people might expect.  They will be fielding a young backline who have learnt a lot from their experiences this year and will continue to develop and gain experience next year.  This, combined with a senior forward pack led by Phil Waugh should see them be very competitive again.

 

So, you are heading to Llanelli in Wales.  How much do you know about the team and place you are heading to?

 

I know a little bit about the club.  I know that it is a very famous club with a long proud tradition.  I also know a few of the guys already that are playing there, including kiwi’s Kees Meeuws and Simon Maling, as well as Simon Easterby and Stephen Jones.

 

How does your family feel about moving to Wales?

My wife is very excited, as it will be a great change from the everyday life we are used to.  We have two kids, one that is 16 months and one that is one week old, so it is better for us to make a move like this while they are so young.

 

Congrats on the newborn Lyno; I wish you and your family all the best with your new adventure.  One last question; When can we expect to see David Lyons back in Australian for good?

 

It won’t be for at least a couple of years, and we’ll see how the family likes things after that.