Gavin Henson will play for the Babarians
Gavin Henson will mark his return to international rugby as he lines up to play against South Africa for the Babarians.
The Welshman accepted the invitation for the test match, which will be played at Twickenham on 4 December.
Henson has not played since March 2009 and has been on a year-long break from the game with his current club the Ospreys. The Welsh centre has made it known that he wishes to return to rugby, but with a London club in order to be close to his children
The 28 year old has been the target of much speculation with London Irish claiming to be interested in the British and Irish Lions midfielder. However, the club recently ruled themselves out of a deal and a number of Premier League clubs have shown no interest
in the Welsh international.
Mike Burton, the Babarians contract coach said, "He has other commitments outside rugby and he is conscious of the need for match fitness in order to do himself and the club justice."
Burton continued, "We will be in regular contact with him and his home club, the Ospreys, in the next few weeks and, all being well, our big game at Twickenham will be the first opportunity to see him back on the representative stage. All the signs are that
we are putting together a very strong squad worthy of such a prestigious occasion."
The Barbarians have already recruited Henson’s Welsh team-mate Mike Philips, Australian Captain Rocky Elsom and out-half Matt Giteau.
New Zealander Chris jack has also announced that he will play in the test match and a number of other stars are expected to confirm their invitations over the next few weeks. Former Italy manager Nick Mallet will take charge as the coach.
Henson is a controversial figure in rugby and Burton is hopeful that this will increase the demand for tickets for the game.
Tags: