Wales Rugby News: Beddall Update, Six Nations Mourning & Dragons Reaction
A United Rugby Championship match between the Dragons and the Stormers was temporarily halted on Saturday, March 22, 2026, after Dragons flanker Harry Beddall was injured during a collision in Cape Town. The 21-year-old was taken off the field on a medical cart after receiving treatment for approximately five minutes.
The incident occurred in the 20th minute of the match at DHL Stadium when Beddall attempted to tackle Stormers number eight Evan Roos, receiving a direct impact to the head from Roos’s knee, according to reports. Referee Andrew Brace immediately stopped play and medical personnel attended to Beddall on the pitch.
Following the match, which the Stormers won 29-21, the Dragons issued an encouraging update via their official X account. The club reported that Beddall was “up and around in the changing rooms, conversing with players and staff, and being looked after by the medical team.”
The stoppage came after the Stormers had already established a 14-0 lead through two tries from Springboks fly-half Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu. The Dragons responded with a attempt from Seb Davies, but ultimately fell short against the South African side.
Dragons head coach Filo Tiatia acknowledged his side’s character in the defeat, praising their resilience in the face of a strong Stormers performance. He highlighted the team’s ability to stay in the fight and defend effectively in key moments, despite struggles at the set-piece and some questionable officiating decisions.
Elsewhere in the rugby world, the French Rugby Federation (FFR) announced the death of Christian Babassud, the head of the FFR’s volunteers division for the past 18 years. Babassud, who was instrumental in organizing numerous rugby events, including the 2023 Rugby World Cup and the 2024 Paris Olympics, passed away shortly after attending a Six Nations match where France secured their title. The FFR described Babassud as an “indispensable” figure and stated that “the entire rugby family is in mourning.”
The Stormers’ victory secured their position in the United Rugby Championship standings, while the Dragons continue to search for consistency as they navigate a challenging season.