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Rugby Union

Henson retains Wales place

19/11/2007

Ospreys centre Gavin Henson has been retained in Wales' slimmed-down 24-man squad for Saturday's Prince William Cup match against South Africa.

The 25-year-old was named in caretaker coach Nigel Davies' 31-strong squad last week, which has now been cut down to 24 players who will line up against the world champions on Saturday.

Of the seven players to be dropped, Shane Williams and Matthew Rees miss out through injury while Ceri Sweeney, Gareth Cooper, Morgan Stoddart, Adam Jones and Ian Gough have all been deemed surplus to requirements.

Davies will surrender the running of the Welsh national team so that new full-time coach Warren Gatland can take over next month.

But he has said he is keen for his players to put in a "special" performance against the Springboks in the one-off Test.

"Wales versus South Africa in front of a huge home crowd at the Millennium Stadium will be a great occasion," he said.

"We now have a squad of 24 players who've shown us they want to be a part of something special."

He continued: "It hasn't been a great weekend results-wise for our regional teams, but certain players have still been able to put their hands up and get themselves selected for the squad to face the world champions."

On the decision to stick with Henson, who is something of a controversial selection, Davies explained: "Gavin Henson has moved his game on another step and is showing signs of playing like his old self again.

"He also offers us a variety of options and the whole of Wales is looking forward to seeing his form continue to improve."

Davies lamented the loss of winger Williams to injury but said it gave an opportunity to some of the younger players to make a mark, particularly Cardiff Blues winger Tom James.

"He is a quality prospect for the future," said Davies.

"He made a try at the weekend and has been encouraging in many of the things he has done."