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The 35-year-old has penned a new deal to stay at the Arms Park for another year
Wales legend Taulupe Faletau has signed a one-year deal to stay at Cardiff for next season.
The talismanic No. 8’s current deal had expired at the end of this season, with Faletau having barely featured in an injury-hit campaign. It did initially appear that Faletau would leave the capital club, with the player at one time looking at options in France.
However, a new deal has now been agreed – meaning Corniel van Zyl will have the benefits of the British and Irish Lions icon for another year.
“I’m thrilled to sign another contract at Cardiff,” said Faletau. “The club feels like home and we made some great progress last season.
“We have improved year on year, now qualifying for next season’s Champions Cup and I’m really looking forward to playing my part.
“On a personal level, the past couple of seasons have had some frustrating injuries but I’ve been pleased with my form when I’ve played and I want to give more to this club and the group of players.
There is a lot of competition in the squad and everyone is pulling in the same direction.
“Playing at the Arms Park is always really special and I am looking forward to getting back out there with the boys and giving everything I can to the club in its 150th season.”
Faletau, who last won a Wales cap in the first Test defeat to Japan in Kitakyushu 12 months ago, is now set to enter his 17th season of professional rugby.
Since joining the Blue and Blacks in 2022, the 35-year-old has made 30 appearances for Cardiff.
“I’m really pleased we have been able to keep Toby at the Arms Park again next season and feel we are putting a competitive squad together,” said van Zyl.
“He is a hugely talented player, who brings a lot of experience and confidence to the group. Every time he plays, he shows he is still one of the best in the game.
“Off the pitch he is also always willing to look after his peers and pass on his knowledge. He is focussed on doing everything he can for the team to perform and the club to grow, so he is great in the environment.
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“He has also been very patient in getting this deal done so I am very grateful to both Toby and his family for that.
“There have been some question marks over his availability given he is in the second part of his career, but we have a good plan in place to manage his training and match minutes. His ultimate ambition remains to play for Wales so we are happy to help him with that but he also wants to perform for Cardiff.
“We have a really competitive back-row at the club and all of the boys, including Toby, are driving each other on and I know he is really hungry to help the club as we continue to grow.”
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