But it is Shaw's inclusion that is perhaps the most compelling story, with the 35-year-old Wasps lock making his Lions Test debut, despite having toured in 1997 and 2005.
Lydiate has been one of the stand-out performers for the Dragons this season and is one of just two Rodney Parade players - alongside lock Luke Charteris - called up for Wales coach Warren Gatland's 29-man autumn Test squad.