When it comes to the Guinness Six Nations, Taulupe Faletau has been there, done it and got the t-shirt.
But even as he gears up for a tilt at his second Grand Slam, the No.8 might just be playing some of the best rugby of his brilliant career.
Faletau was awarded the Guinness Six Nations Player of the Match award for another imperious display in a 40-24 win against England that puts Wales top of the table ahead of their final two games.
In a topsy-turvy encounter, Wales led 17-6 in the first half and looked on course for a comfortable win before England hit back.
Ben Youngs’ try helped to level the score in the second half but Wales pulled clear late on through three Callum Sheedy penalties and a Cory Hill try.
Faletau was at the heart of everything Wales did. He carried 18 times – eight more than any other player in red – and gained a team-high 112 metres.
He also made 14 tackles, one less than fellow back-rower Josh Navidi, in an awesome display with and without the ball.
“We’ll take the win, it is a massive achievement for the group, we are really pleased with the result,” he said.
“We took our chances when they came about and we are pleased with that.
“The group were tighter than in the last Six Nations and that helps in the tough battles.”
