The former Wales number 10 has decided to hang up his boots and pursue a career in coachingRhys Patchell has hung up his boots(Image: Ben Evans/Huw Evans Agency)

Rhys Patchell has announced his retirement from rugby at the age of 32 and has been appointed the kicking coach at the Dragons.

WalesOnline exclusively revealed in July Patchell was joining the Dragons in a coaching capacity and the club have confirmed the appointment today. Patchell, who could play both outside-half and full-back, won 22 caps for Wales.

He represented Cardiff, Scarlets, Japanese club NEC Green Rockets and Kiwi Super Rugby outfit the Highlanders throughout a successful career.

Patchell’s year in Japan with the NEC Green Rockets is set to feature in a new S4C documentary.

“Throughout my career I have been fortunate to have worked with some great coaches, and I hope to use all those experiences to help our players,” Patchell told the BBC. Sign up to Inside Welsh rugby on Substack to get exclusive news stories and insight from behind the scenes in Welsh rugby.

“I have loved getting on the field and working with our players as they develop their craft. The boys have worked hard in pre-season, and I’m looking forward to watching the growth in our squad.

“In the end, I’m most proud of my perseverance – dealing with injuries and maintaining the belief that I could come back and perform at the same level, if not better, after each setback.

“Playing for Wales, competing in the World Cup and the Six Nations at the Principality Stadium were unforgettable moments, but what I’ll remember most are the people I did it all with. Join WalesOnline Rugby’s WhatsApp Channel here to get the breaking news sent straight to your phone for free

“Those who supported me from the sidelines – driving me to training, washing kit, feeding me – all those things. And the teammates I put my boots on alongside and rolled up my sleeves with.”

Patchell has now joined Filo Tiatia’s backroom team at the Dragons who have recruited heavily this summer.

The former Wales playmaker will work closely with the likes of South African outside-half Tinus de Beer along with the likes of Angus O’Brien, Jac Lloyd, Harri Ford and Cai Evans.

“Rhys brings knowledge and experience after featuring at the highest level, playing not only in Wales but also in New Zealand with the Highlanders and most recently in Japan,” said Dragons head coach Tiatia. Get the latest breaking Welsh rugby news stories sent straight to your inbox with our FREE daily newsletter. Sign up here.

“Rhys is a young coach who is building a strong relationship with the players here and who we feel will continue to grow in the role and make an impact on the Dragons.”