Henson ready to return

Henson: Back for Wales

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Wales caretaker boss Nigel Davies has no doubt Gavin Henson is ready for his eagerly-awaited return to Test rugby in this weekend's clash against world champions South Africa.

Henson has been restored to the national side for Saturday's Millennium Stadium showdown as Wales return to action for the first time since their painful World Cup exit.

It will be the 25-year-old's first start for Wales in more than a year and only his second full appearance since he helped his country to a memorable Grand Slam success in 2005.

A lengthy suspension was followed by injury, before further question marks surrounding Henson's fitness meant former Wales coach Gareth Jenkins overlooked him for the 2007 World Cup campaign.

Intense

However, Davies is convinced he has earned his call-up, and said: "I saw Gavin play at Kingsholm for the Ospreys against Gloucester last Friday.

"It was a very intense environment - one of the most intense environments at club or regional level, and close to the international arena - and he performed very well.

"That ultimately convinced me. Another factor is there is a midfield trio who have played consistently together for the Ospreys - so they have a great understanding, which definitely helps.

"We have had a limited time to prepare this team, so these are the considerations that come into that."

Hook's appearance in the number 10 shirt means former Wales captain Stephen Jones moves to replacement duty.

But Davies' most contentious decision undoubtedly surrounds Cardiff Blues centre Tom Shanklin, who misses out behind Parker and starts on the wing instead of an injured Shane Williams.

Shanklin is one of Europe's form midfield operators, but Davies added: "Tom has played on the wing before.

"He is a world-class player and he realises that he is doing a job for Wales in the respect he has taken to the challenge and is ready to support our needs."