Gavin Henson's return to Test rugby will be delayed until at least the start of the Six Nations Championship in February after he was ruled out of Wales's upcoming Tests against Australia and New Zealand with an Achilles tendon injury.

Ospreys centre Henson, 26, had been due to play against South Africa last Saturday but withdrew 24 hours before the match with the world champions kicked-off at the Millennium Stadium.

Henson had a scan on his ankle on Tuesday and specialists provided him with an injection which, together with a period of progressive rehab over the next month, should alleviate his injury.

"Consultations with UK specialists yesterday led us to conclude that an injection followed by a specific rehabilitation protocol, which will take place over the next few weeks, was the best way forward," said Wales physiotherapist Mark Davies in a Welsh Rugby Union statement.

"Gavin has now had his injection and will now be out of action for approximately one month," Davies added.

"He has been given an injury specific training program to follow in that time which should provide a resolution to his problem."

Wales coach Warren Gatland has made no secret of his admiration for Henson, recalling him for the Springboks game despite the midfielder's relative lack of match fitness.

"We are just hoping he gets fit and back and available to us," Gatland told BBC Radio Two.

"Because on his day, when he is fit and playing well, he is able to compete with the best players in the world.

"He is a world-class player, and when he's fit he does make a difference.

"The testament to Gavin Henson as a player is that any time he's started for Wales in a Six Nations game, Wales have won it. I think that's an indication of what sort of player he is."

In his absence, seasoned Cardiff centre Tom Shanklin partnered Jamie Roberts against South Africa and the duo are now set to link up in midfield once more for the visit of New Zealand.

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