Faletau latest to be leaving this season
Number eight Taulupe Faletau says he wants to make a real impact in the Blue, Black and White in his final season at the club as Bath Rugby officially confirmed the Welsh international will leave at the end of the season.
Faletau, 30, is expected to join United Rugby Championship side Cardiff Rugby.
Having joined Bath from the Dragons in 2016, the 91 cap international has suffered a string of significant injuries while playing in the Gallagher Premiership which has reduced his playing time at club level, making 64 appearances over five years.
Discussing the move, Faletau said: “It feels like the right time for me, and my family, to return home.
“To date, I’m disappointed to not have been able to personally contribute more but I am looking forward to giving it my all for the rest of the season in Blue, Black and White. To the fans who continue to support through the highs and lows - thank you.”
The powerful forward added: “I will leave Bath at the end of the season with fond memories, both professionally and personally, plus two Bathborn sons.
“Bath has been a brilliant club for me over the years and I owe it a lot.
“I feel lucky to have played with such a great group of boys and I know that Bath’s success is coming.
“I will miss the team and everyone at the club, but my heart is set on returning to Wales and hopefully continuing my international playing ambitions.
Director of rugby Stuart Hooper added: “It continues to be a privilege to work with Taulupe; he is a worldclass number eight who makes a significant impact on the field.
“When all are fit and well, we have a robust back row and fierce competition across all three positions.
“As we develop our squad for 2022 a crucial factor is the availability of our players throughout the season.
“Having a squad that can compete during the international calendar is becoming fundamental as the quality of competition in the Premiership increases.
“Taulupe leaves with our blessing, and we all wish him well for his future.
“We will, of course, 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.”
Faletau is yet to play this season having had a prolonged rest after a summer of international duty with the British and Irish Lions and then picked up an ankle injury when he returned to training at Farleigh House.
He has now joined the Welsh squad ahead of the Autumn internationals.