Taulupe Faletau: Cardiff confirm signing of Wales number eight from Bath
- Published
Taulupe Faletau has played 86 internationals for Wales and five Tests for the British and Irish Lions on three tours
Cardiff have confirmed Wales number eight Taulupe Faletau will join the region at the end of the 2021-22 season from Bath.
The British and Irish Lions back row joined Bath from Dragons in 2016.
Bath announced earlier this week the 30-year-old would leave and the number eight says his Wales career was a driving force.
"Playing international rugby is still something I have a lot of passion for," said Faletau.
"I hope that by playing well for Cardiff I'll be able to continue to do that."
Faletau was unavailable for Saturday's 54-16 defeat against New Zealand as English clubs did not release Welsh players because the Test match was organised outside World Rugby's international window.
A move back to Wales would avoid a similar scenario happening from next season, though Faletau has not featured for Bath so far this season because of an ankle injury.
"I'm excited about having a new challenge, working with Dai [Young, Cardiff boss] and playing alongside some familiar faces," added Faletau.
"I've enjoyed the last five years at Bath and I hope to finish this season off strongly. Then I am looking forward to coming back to Wales to play my rugby, and I know it will feel good to be back home."
Cardiff have already confirmed Wales flanker Thomas Young will join the region from Wasps for the 2022-23 season, where he will link up again with director of rugby and father Dai.
"There is absolutely no doubt around his [Faletau's] quality and ability," added Dai Young.
"What he has achieved in the game is second to none and he remains motivated to achieve more.
"He sees Cardiff as a fresh challenge to keep him striving at the top of the game and is excited about what we are trying to build here.
"Number eight is a position where we needed to strengthen and he will give us that ball-carrying ability while helping develop some of our younger players through competition.
"It is a key signing for us and we hope to continue adding strength to specific areas identified in the squad."
Faletau has made 64 appearances for Bath during his five years at the Rec.
"It continues to be a privilege to work with Taulupe; he is a world-class number eight who makes a significant impact on the field," said Bath director of rugby Stuart Hooper.
"Taulupe leaves with our blessing and we all wish him well for his future. We will give him a brilliant send-off when the time comes. Until then, our focus remains resolute on delivering a campaign we can all be proud of."
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