Faletau’s switch to Cardiff is confirmed

CARDIFF have confirmed the signing of Wales and Lions star Taulupe Faletau from Bath in a major coup.

The 86-times capped No 8 will come on board next summer following a five year stint at The Rec.

Commenting on the move, he said: “I’m really looking forward to joining Cardiff next season.

“I’m excited about having a new challenge, working with Dai Young and playing alongside some familiar faces.

“Playing international rugby is still something I have a lot of passion for and I hope that by playing well for Cardiff I’ll be able to continue to do that.

“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.”

Director of Rugby Dai Young said: “There is absolutely no doubt around the quality and ability of Toby.

“What he has achieved in the game is second to none and he remains highly 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.

“He will play a big part in that and his ability as a player and experience, both on and off the pitch, will drive standards across the board.

“No 8 is a position where we needed to strengthen and he will give us that ball-carrying ability while helping develop some of our younger back-rowers through competition.

“It is a key signing for us and we hope to continue adding strength to specific areas identified in the squad.”

Faletau, who has been on three Lions tours, playing in five Tests, is the second Wales international to commit to a move to Cardiff, following in the footsteps of Wasps flanker Thomas Young.

The former Dragons back rower, who turns 31 next week, is currently sidelined with an ankle problem which will keep him out of the autumn campaign.

But the confirmation of his move to the Arms Park comes as hugely exciting news for Cardiff fans.