Wales will be without veteran number eight Taulupe Faletau for the opening three games of the 2026 Six Nations Championship after the 35-year-old suffered a calf injury while playing for Cardiff Rugby against the Ospreys on 1 January.

The setback comes shortly after Faletau returned from a knee injury that kept him out of Wales’ 2025 autumn internationals, highlighting the ongoing struggles the experienced forward has faced with injuries in recent seasons.

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Injury Timeline and Recovery

Cardiff coach Corniel van Zyl confirmed the expected recovery timeline, suggesting that Faletau could return midway through the Six Nations, likely in the clash against Leinster on 27 February in domestic competition.

“It’s not clear exactly when he’ll return, but we’re definitely looking at the middle of the Six Nations,” van Zyl said.
“That would see him miss Wales’ opening matches against England (7 February), France (15 February), and Scotland (21 February), but he could be available for later fixtures.”

Faletau’s absence leaves Wales without one of their most experienced forwards at a crucial stage of the tournament, posing challenges for head coach Steve Tandy in terms of squad selection and leadership on the pitch.

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Implications for Wales’ Six Nations Campaign

Wales will have to adapt in the back row without Faletau’s presence. During the autumn internationals, Tandy’s options at number eight included:

• Aaron Wainwright
• Olly Cracknell
• Taine Plumtree
• Morgan Morse

Additionally, Ross Moriarty could return as a versatile forward option. However, the absence of Faletau—combined with injuries to captain Jac Morgan and Gloucester centre Max Llewellyn—will test the depth of the Welsh squad.

Faletau’s experience as a British and Irish Lions number eight and his leadership on and off the field will be sorely missed, particularly in the high-pressure opener against England. Wales will need other senior players to step up to guide the team through these early fixtures.

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Looking Ahead

Steve Tandy is set to announce the full Six Nations squad on 20 January, giving him a limited window to assess the squad and adjust strategies for Faletau’s absence.

While Faletau’s injury is a blow, Cardiff fans and Welsh rugby supporters remain hopeful that he will return in time to make an impact in the latter stages of the tournament. His experience, physicality, and leadership will be key assets for Wales as they aim to compete with the top teams in the Northern Hemisphere.