Cardiff Optimistic About Taulupe Faletau's Return for URC

Cardiff is optimistic that Taulupe Faletau, the Wales number eight, will be ready for the beginning of the 2026-27 United Rugby Championship (URC). The 35-year-old player has returned to non-contact training following a season-ending shoulder injury sustained in March, which limited him to seven appearances last season due to earlier knee and calf issues.

Faletau has been participating in pre-season training and is expected to increase his involvement as the URC opener against Scarlets approaches on September 26. Head coach Corniel van Zyl noted that while Faletau is not yet engaging in contact drills, he is maintaining good fitness levels and will gradually be integrated into more contact training.

Since joining Cardiff from Bath in 2022, Faletau has played 30 matches for the team. Despite facing multiple injuries, he received a one-year contract extension in July. Van Zyl emphasized Faletau's quality and the positive impact he has on the team, expressing hope that a full pre-season will enhance his performance as they prepare for the upcoming season.