Faletau facing a decision on where his rugby future lies
HAVE things truly been the same for Taulupe Faletau since he left the Dragons to play for Bath in 2016?
Let’s assume most people know the answer to that one.
Six major injury lay-offs in four seasons have impacted hugely on his time in the west of England, restricting him to just 41 club outings and 18 Wales appearances.
Contrast that with the figures for his final four seasons with the Dragons. In that time, he played 71 times for the Rodney Parade region and featured in 45 Tests. Some felt he was indestructible.
He is now being linked with a move to Beziers, with the French club reportedly ready to test Bath’s resolve by making a move.
Quite possibly, then, the 29-yearold could soon have a decision to make. He won’t be short of options, and attractive ones at that... STAYING AT BATH
There are worse places to live and play rugby than in one of England’s most grand cities.
Faletau signed a long-term contract with Bath in 2018 and has long seemed happy there, saying via the press release that reported news of his deal two years ago: “This is the place where I want to play, develop and win trophies.”
Is the relationship still all sweetness and light on both sides?
There have been no public utterances to the contrary.
But English rugby is awash with uncertainty amid pay cuts and salary cap reductions. There can’t be a Gallagher Premiership player who hasn’t lost some sleep in recent weeks.
Beziers are evidently testing the water, with Midi Olympique reporting their director of rugby Christophe Dominici had made approaches for the Wales No.8.
It’s unclear what Bath’s response might be, but if they were willing to let Faletau go for whatever reason, they’d be giving up a lot.
HEADING FOR BEZIERS
The mid-table French Pro D2 club have ambition and the money to back it up. They were initially on the trail of Beauden Barrett, Dan Biggar and Courtney Lawes at the time of an on-going takeover at the club.
But those players have all committed elsewhere.
Meantime, what’s Faletau to do, with Beziers apparently chasing him?
If Wayne Pivac wouldn’t be turning cartwheels at the prospect of a current Wales international pitching up in the French second division, then it’s hard to imagine Warren Gatland being overly pleased with such an outcome ahead of the Lions tour next summer.
But, as plenty have pointed out in recent weeks, careers can be short and players do not know what’s around the corner.
The ancient town of Beziers is one of the nicest places in France to live. Throw a significant wage into the mix and many would be willing to at least listen to what’s on offer.
PIVAC’S PREFERENCE?
The assumption is Wales’ head coach wants all his squad members to be playing out of the regions. Such a scenario makes his job easier, as Pivac doesn’t have to worry about access when players are locally based.
Is there interest in Wales?
Well, earlier this year, the Ospreys were said to be looking into the option of signing him. But when WalesOnline checked out the story in April, no contact had been made with Faletau.
It also seems doubtful that the
south-west Wales region have deep enough pockets to afford the Lions Test man at this stage.
Faletau could do a lot for Cardiff Blues, but the belt-tightening across Welsh rugby means they, like the Ospreys, would probably struggle to compete with rivals in France or England. Returning to the regional scene would also likely mean a significant pay-cut for Faletau. VERDICT
How determined are Bath to keep one of their biggest names?
It’s a question worth asking as big names do not come cheap and English rugby is watching the pennies in this wretched summer.
But if Bath do want to keep Faletau, then it’s hard to see even wealthy French clubs having the clout to prise him away. Faletau’s attitude is key, too.
Does he want to dig in and potentially extend his Test career over three years and more? If he does, the French second division isn’t the place to head.
Lack of money means the Welsh regions start a fair way back in any bidding. Maybe the best course is for the famously laid-back back rower to not jump into anything, as his contract at The Rec is a long one.
Whatever happens, Pivac will want to see one of his most experienced players settled, with uncertainty no good for any player.