The Newport Gwent Dragons star has grown in prominence since the World Cup with his fierce chop tackle becoming a trademark of Welsh play.
He took the 2012 RBS Player of the Championship after helping Wales to the Grand Slam and was one of the stand out players in the recent tour of Australia.
And Lydiate has now been recognised by journalists with his latest award. Fellow Welsh international Ashley Beck also picked up the most promising player gong.
Meanwhile Lydiate may no longer need ankle surgery. It had been reported that the flanker required an operation to solve a long-standing ankle problem.
But it is now hoped he will avoid going under the knife and be fit for the start of the 2012-13 domestic season.
Lydiate has been plagued by ankle injuries since the World Cup last year. He required intensive treatment and even iced the ankle every two hours for 48-hours just to stay in New Zealand.
But he suffered further set-backs in November and January with the Dragons. He missed the RBS 6 Nations opener against Ireland but played an enormous part in the remainder of the tournament.
