Wales hooker Liam Belcher has returned to full fitness with Cardiff Rugby after a nerve issue sidelined him for several weeks, causing him to lose feeling and power in his arm. The 29-year-old front-rower captained Cardiff against the Scarlets in the United Rugby Championship (URC) on Friday, although his side fell narrowly 21-17.

Belcher’s Nerve Injury and Recovery

Belcher, who won his first Wales cap against Japan during the summer Tests, had featured in the autumn internationals against Argentina and Japan before being forced out by the injury. The condition, which affected his tricep, forearm, and grip, was unlike anything he had experienced previously.

“It was a concerning one, I’d never had it before,” Belcher said. “It was a bit scary, losing power in your arm – then it hit the tricep and went on to the forearm and grip.”

Belcher suffered a series of neck stingers, including three in three weeks, which escalated during the week of the All Blacks game, leading to complete numbness in his hand and reduced strength in his tricep and grip.

The hooker credited the Cardiff and Wales medical teams with his rapid return to play.

“They were brilliant and gave me the confidence to come back. It was a waiting game and luckily it took four weeks, because in some cases it can take longer,” Belcher said.

Cardiff and Wales Front-Row Options

Belcher’s return boosts Cardiff’s squad ahead of key URC fixtures, including the clash against Dragons at the Arms Park on 26 December and a New Year’s Day match against Ospreys in Bridgend.

For Wales, head coach Steve Tandy has several front-row options for the upcoming 2026 Six Nations campaign, which kicks off with an away game against England on 7 February. Available players include captain Dewi Lake, fit-again Ryan Elias, Brodie Coghlan, and Evan Lloyd, alongside Belcher.

Belcher’s International Prospects

Belcher has already made appearances in Wales’ autumn internationals, coming off the bench in the first two Tests. His successful recovery from this nerve injury means he is expected to compete for a starting role in the Six Nations, strengthening Wales’ front row and providing vital experience in the tight five.

Belcher expressed relief at his return and optimism for the remainder of the season:

“The only positive I can take against Scarlets was that I got through OK and there weren’t any repercussions.”