No. 8 Taulupe Faletau is set to return to the pitch for Wales after a long absence of 16 months—the period during which the team has endured a historic losing streak in rugby tests. His last appearance was in October 2023, coinciding with Wales’ last victory. Since then, the national team has faced an unprecedented 13 consecutive losses, a record that has brought considerable concern among fans and management alike.
Welcomed back into the starting line-up for the upcoming Six Nations clash against Italy in Rome, Faletau’s return comes as a significant boost for the team. “He’s ready to go. A confidence boost,” noted Wales coach Warren Gatland during a training camp in Nice, France. Gatland emphasized Faletau’s experience and unique skill set, stating that his presence on the field is a source of inspiration and reassurance for the squad as they aim to halt their dismal run.
The urgency to rectify their losing streak is acute for Wales, especially after being soundly defeated 43-0 by favorites France during the opening match of the Six Nations—a result that marked the first time in 27 years that Wales did not score in a tournament game. Faletau, who played his last match against Georgia in October 2023 and reached the milestone of 104 caps, aims to bring renewed vigor to a team that has drastically changed since his absence.
His return has been heavily anticipated, but it has not come without a series of setbacks. Faletau suffered an arm injury during the match against Georgia, which was followed by a shoulder injury in his club’s comeback match earlier in the year. A knee issue prevented him from playing against France last Friday. However, he is now fit and ready to contribute.
As he looks ahead, there is the possibility of a fourth British and Irish Lions tour at the end of the season for the 34-year-old, though concerns linger regarding his physical condition given his injury history. Gatland acknowledged the uncertainty, stating, “It’s the million-dollar question,” referring to Faletau’s longevity in international rugby. He remains optimistic about Faletau’s readiness to take on a leadership role within the squad.
In addition to Faletau, the team will feature only 11 players from the roster that faced Georgia 16 months ago. Inside center Eddie James is also making his mark, as he prepares for his first start in just his fourth test match. Debuting against South Africa last June, James is expected to utilize his imposing 6-foot-4 stature to enhance Wales’ offensive capabilities, an area in which they struggled significantly during their recent match in Paris.
