Key Points
- Cardiff scrum-half Johan Mulder has praised teammate Taulupe Faletau as “the goat” (greatest of all time) in rugby.
- Mulder describes Faletau, aged 35, as one of the best ever number eights, highlighting his confidence-building presence, ability to breach the advantage line, and incredible skillset.
- Mulder expresses personal enjoyment in playing alongside Faletau, noting the back-row’s substantial contributions to the team.
- Faletau plays for Cardiff Rugby in the United Rugby Championship (URC) and has represented Wales extensively.
- Recent injury setbacks include a calf injury in early 2026 that sidelined Faletau for Wales’ first three Six Nations games against England, France, and Scotland.
- Cardiff coach Corniel van Zyl targeted a mid-Six Nations return for Faletau, aiming for the Leinster match on 27 February 2026.
- Faletau made a comeback for Cardiff against the Bulls in Pretoria on 19 March 2026 after limited appearances due to injuries.
- Wales defence coach Steve Tandy has not ruled out Faletau’s international return but stresses building for the future with emerging talents like Aaron Wainwright and Olly Cracknell.
- Faletau signed a new contract with Cardiff in May 2025, committing for another season despite injury challenges.
- Cardiff head coach Matt Sherratt (or Corniel van Zyl in other contexts) lauded Faletau’s all-around quality and experience.
- Faletau’s career highlights include over 109 caps for Wales, three British & Irish Lions tours, and standout performances like against Munster.
Cardiff (Cardiff Daily) March 27, 2026 – Cardiff scrum-half Johan Mulder has unequivocally hailed teammate Taulupe Faletau as “the goat,” underscoring the 35-year-old’s enduring prowess as one of rugby’s premier number eights amid preparations for a crucial United Rugby Championship clash against the Sharks.
Mulder’s glowing endorsement comes at a pivotal moment for Cardiff Rugby, as the veteran back-row forward continues to defy age and injury woes to anchor the squad. As reported by BBC Sport journalists, Mulder stated:
“He’s definitely the goat (greatest of all time)”.
He added without hesitation:
“He’s one of the best to ever do it in the eighth man position. I absolutely love playing with him”.
The South African half-back further elaborated on Faletau’s intangible impacts, saying:
“He brings so much to the team. He brings confidence. He gets us over the advantage line. His skillset… incredible”.
This praise echoes sentiments from earlier in the season, where Mulder credited Faletau’s
“full repertoire – stepping, line breaks, great timing of passes, defended well”
after a standout display.
Who is Taulupe Faletau?
Taulupe Faletau, born on 12 November 1990 in Tonga and known professionally by his Tongan name, has been a cornerstone of Welsh rugby since moving to Wales as a child. He rose through Cross Keys RFC, Newport RFC, and Newport Gwent Dragons before stints at Bath (2016-2022) and returning to Cardiff in 2022.
With over 109 caps for Wales—his last in July 2025—Faletau has featured in multiple Rugby World Cups, including stellar showings in 2011. A three-time British & Irish Lions tourist, he has earned acclaim as a
“world-class Welsh number eight combining power, skill and intelligence at the base of the scrum”.
Cardiff Rugby confirmed in May 2025 that Faletau signed a new deal to stay at the Arms Park. As quoted on the official Cardiff Rugby site, Faletau said:
“I’m delighted to be staying with Cardiff and continuing my rugby journey here at home. Being part of this group has been incredible”.
Head coach Matt Sherratt added:
“We are all delighted to be able to keep Taulupe at Cardiff and in Wales. He is a highly respected member of our squad”.
What Recent Injuries Has Faletau Faced?
Faletau’s 2025-26 season has been blighted by setbacks, limiting him to just five appearances for Cardiff before a March return. A calf injury sustained against the Ospreys on 1 January 2026 ruled him out of Wales’ opening Six Nations fixtures.
As reported by BBC Sport, Cardiff coach Corniel van Zyl commented: “His timeline for recovery is uncertain, but we are definitely aiming for the middle of the Six Nations, particularly looking towards our game against Leinster on February 27”. Van Zyl reiterated:
“That is our goal; we’ll have to monitor his progress”.
This absence meant Faletau missed matches against England (7 February), France (15 February), and Scotland (21 February). He made his eagerly awaited return off the bench against the Bulls in Pretoria on 19 March, despite a 40-7 defeat, boosting Cardiff’s play-off push.
WalesOnline reported: “Cardiff are set to welcome back Wales legend Taulupe Faletau from injury as they take on the Bulls in Pretoria on Friday evening”. Van Zyl noted pre-match:
“We are eagerly anticipating Friday’s match, which will certainly present a significant challenge at Loftus. The Bulls are a formidable side”.
Can Faletau Still Play for Wales?
Mulder’s bold claim directly addresses this, insisting the “goat” retains the capacity to excel internationally. Wales defence coach Steve Tandy echoed openness to a comeback in a WalesOnline piece on 13 March 2026, stating Wales is “not dismissing Faletau’s return” despite injury struggles.
Tandy emphasised balance: “Wales must also look to the future,” praising Aaron Wainwright and Olly Cracknell’s form in Faletau’s absence. Faletau’s last Wales outing was a defeat in July 2025, but his club form—highlighted by a player-of-the-match vintage performance against Munster—suggests he remains a force.
BBC Sport captured the optimism around Faletau ahead of the Sharks game, framing Mulder’s tribute as testament to his ongoing relevance.
Why Does Mulder Praise Faletau So Highly?
Players often hesitate to overly laud teammates, yet Mulder shows no such reticence. As per the BBC article titled “‘Goat’ Faletau can still do it for Wales,” Mulder’s assessment stems from firsthand experience: Faletau’s line-breaking, confidence infusion, and multifaceted skills elevate Cardiff.
RugbyPass previously noted Mulder’s match-winning try context, where Faletau’s influence was pivotal. Tournaments.com profiles Faletau as embodying “raw physical talent with an analytical understanding,” aligning with Mulder’s view.
This camaraderie underscores Cardiff’s squad dynamics under recent ownership changes by the Welsh Rugby Union.
What Is Faletau’s Impact on Cardiff Rugby?
Since rejoining in 2022, Faletau has made 23 appearances, passing invaluable experience. His December 2024 return from a broken shoulder marked a season highlight.
In 2025, RugbyPass dubbed him an “unbelievable X-Factor” for playoff pushes. Coaches like Sherratt praise his “real quality in every aspect of the game”.
Recent Bulls outing signalled renewed momentum, vital as Cardiff eyes URC playoffs post a tough South African tour.
How Does This Fit into Welsh Rugby’s Landscape?
Faletau’s story mirrors Wales’ blend of legacy and renewal. At 35, he symbolises enduring excellence amid a youth surge. Mulder’s endorsement, reported across BBC and RugbyPass, boosts morale ahead of high-stakes fixtures.
As Cardiff faces the Sharks—known for physicality—Faletau’s potential starts could propel both club and national aspirations. Tandy’s comments suggest selectors weigh experience against form.
Faletau’s journey from Tongan roots to Welsh icon inspires, with Mulder’s words cementing his “goat” status.
