Taine Basham’s journey in rugby has been full of twists and turns, but the 2025/26 season may be his time to shine once again. Once touted as Welsh rugby’s rising star, Basham’s career hit a few bumps, leaving him out of favour in the national team setup. However, the 25-year-old dynamo is not backing down.
With a point to prove, Basham is starting fresh with Cardiff Rugby, debuting as No. 8 in a pre-season friendly against Richmond. The change comes as Steve Tandy takes over as Wales’ head coach, offering Basham a chance to reignite his international ambitions. Known for his explosive footwork and offloading skills, he could be just what Wales needs, if he finds his form.
Despite competition from talented peers like Jac Morgan and Tommy Reffell, Basham’s versatility across the backrow makes him a unique asset. His past performances against rugby giants like New Zealand and South Africa showcased his potential, and a new chapter with Cardiff might be the catalyst he needs to get back on track.
Basham himself is optimistic: “A new environment and peers will hopefully be good for me,” he shares. Reflecting on his quick rise in international rugby, he admits the move is about rediscovering his best self—specifically the form from 2021, when he made a significant mark against southern hemisphere teams.
With Wales seeking powerful ball carriers, Basham’s consistency at Cardiff could make him hard for Tandy to ignore. The competition is tough, with players like Taulupe Faletau in the mix, but sometimes that’s exactly what’s needed to push a player to new heights. Watch this space as Basham battles to reclaim his place in the Welsh squad and prove he has what it takes to be a fixture in the national side once again! 🏉🔥