Taulupe Faletau is excited to have linked up with Cardiff Rugby ahead of the 22/23 season.
Having toured South Africa with Wales earlier this summer, the number eight has now joined the Blue and Blacks squad in Cardiff Arms Park as preparations take a step up before next week’s pre-season opener against Gloucester.
With the Welsh internationals gradually being introduced into team training, Faletau is itching to get the season underway in new colours as he returns to play his club rugby in Wales for the first time since 2016.
The three-times British and Irish Lion tourist said: “It’s definitely exciting to be starting something new, as is always the case.
“It’s been good, two or three days in now, and it helps to have a lot of familiar faces. I’m happy to be here.
“It’s definitely easier to have familiar faces here and you can open up a bit earlier than you normally would. It’s been good.
“We’re getting eased into the programme and hopefully will be joining the team next week.
“It’s exciting to join something new with a new group of players and the targets we have here.
“I’m sure it will be bouncing at the Arms Park come that Friday night against Munster and everyone around here is excited for that.
“I’ve definitely got good memories from here, especially of the battles on the pitch. You definitely need the help of the crowd and they always seem to make a lot of noise.
“Looking around the changing room, the back row that we’ve got here is very strong, and it’s the same around the other regions. It’s all about good competition that’s for the boys’ benefit.
“It’s obviously been a while since I played in Wales, around six years, so I’m looking forward to being back here.”