Welsh caretaker coach Nigel Davies is convinced Gavin Henson is ready for his eagerly anticipated return to test rugby in this weekend's clash against South Africa.

Saturday's match at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff will be the 25-year-old's first international start for more than a year, and only his second full appearance for Wales since the Six Nations Grand Slam-clinching victory over Ireland in 2005.

He sat on the sidelines for a lengthy suspension before an injury kept him further out of action and then question marks surrounding his fitness meant former Wales coach Gareth Jenkins overlooked him for the 2007 World Cup.

However, Davies has named him to start at 12 alongside fellow Ospreys James Hook and Sonny Parker.

"I saw Gavin play at Kingsholm for the Ospreys against Gloucester last Friday," Davies said.

"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 selection in the number 10 jersey means former Wales skipper Stephen Jones takes a seat on the bench.

Tom Shanklin has missed out on the starting centre berth to Parker but starts on the wing instead of an injured Shane Williams.

"Tom has played on the wing before,” Davies said.

"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.