The Taulupe Faletau Column

At international level, you’d obviously rather go into a fortnight of training on the back of a win than a loss. Everybody’s more upbeat. I played for Bath against Gloucester last weekend as well [Faletau scored his side’s only try in the derby victory] and that was a tough game. Mind you, the previous two games with Wales were tough too, so I’d like to think I’m fairly battle-hardened.

When myself, Tips and Lyds packed down together against Ireland in round one, it was like rolling back the years. It was crazy. Circumstances in our lives may have changed since we first played together all those years ago – we’ve all got children now, for example – but we’re still the same people. We’re all very laid back off the pitch.

I was really disappointed to see Lyds’ campaign come to an abrupt end through injury. He started so well in that game against Ireland; you saw what he was about and it was just unfortunate that it was cut short, because I reckon he would have been a key player for us.

Whichever players you get to play alongside in the Wales back row, it’s always thrilling because there’s so much talent here. I’ve not been in the environment that often in the recent past, so seeing all these new faces is refreshing too. To still be part of it all is great.

I’ve been reminded that this summer will mark ten years since I won my first cap. As always seems to be the case with debuts, it happened so fast. What I do remember is coming up against George Smith, who was playing for the Barbarians. He was my hero growing up. I used to watch him a lot on TV. ‘Nugget’ [Wales team manager Martyn Williams] actually came on as a sub for him in the back row for the Baa-Baas that day too!

It’s funny, because I only tend to remember key moments from games I’ve played in – whether they were good or bad – rather than any big occasions or milestones, but getting the chance to play against a rugby legend like George Smith on my debut was very memorable.

I’ve got two boys, who are two and four years old. The eldest is rugby mad and he’s been desperate for me to score a try for a while now. ‘Dad, did you score? No. Better luck next time.’ He must have been waiting too long because when I told him I’d finally scored last weekend, he wasn’t too bothered. I try to keep them as entertained as I can, but it’s harder to do that after games because you want to play, but your body doesn’t quite allow you to.

Family is a massive part of Tongan culture. There’s still a strong Tongan community in South Wales, and a lot of our get-togethers are based around our faith. In more normal times, we’ll all meet in Pontypool, where my parents live, for a church service and a feast. It’s good to see the second generation of Tongan kids coming through the ranks in regional rugby, like the Moa brothers at the Dragons, and Carwyn Tuipulotu at Scarlets.

Being able to see everyone again once this pandemic is over is something we’re all really looking forward to as a family.