Warren Gatland’s men travel to Twickenham for the first time since the 25-21 defeat that ended their Six Nations chances. Wales then travel to New Zealand on Monday to take on the world champions in their own backyard.
But Lydiate is hoping Sunday’s meeting with the Red Rose will turn out more like the historic Rugby World Cup triumph last year.
He said: “The first half of that Six Nations game is still hurting. We’ve got a chance to play against the Grand Slam winning side and the boys are really looking forward to it. We are still scratching our heads now about the first half. It was tough watching it back and nobody wants to feel like we did after that game again, we’ve just to make sure our preparation is right and we fly into the game.
“All credit to England, they flew into us and we were found wanting. We weren’t at the races at all. It’s always a big challenge going there but one that you relish. We are looking forward to this weekend to hopefully start the tour off on a strong foot.”
Wales fly-out to New Zealand just a day after the Twickenham clash before the first test at Eden Park on May 11. And Lydiate reckons they are ready to hit the ground running.
He said : “We were in last week and had quite intense sessions. The boys are looking in good shape, everyone is lean and there have been a few PBs. That shows everyone has been diligent with their training and what they have been eating because we know it’s a big tour.
“There has been a lot of rugby played this year but you just focus on the next challenge. This game has soon crept up on us and on Monday we will be flying out to New Zealand. We have a massive game ahead of us that will hopefully put us in good stead to head to New Zealand with confidence.”
