Wales flanker Dan Lydiate will miss the 6 Nations after being ruled out for the rest of the year after suffering a serious knee injury.

He was stretched off during Wales' win against South Africa in November.

Lydiate has been a mainstay for the Welsh side under Warren Gatland and toured with the Lions in 2013.

An Ospreys statement read: "Dan Lydiate has been ruled out for the rest of the season after suffering anterior cruciate ligament damage in Wales' final autumn fixture, against South Africa."

"Following consultation it has been confirmed that surgery is required, as a result of which he will not play again until next season."

Wales enjoyed a relatively successful autumn international series beating Argentina, South Africa and Japan after losing thier firs match against Australia. 

Lydiate ruled out for season https://t.co/CfVZ5xDzuY

— Ospreys (@ospreys) December 4, 2016