The 32-year-old will miss the Ospreys' Heineken Cup double header against Viadana but should return in time for the crucial Pool Three clashes with Clermont Auvergne and Leicester in mid-January.

Wales team physio Mark Davies said: "Shane has a grade two tear to his hamstring and will be out of action for four to six weeks, undergoing treatment and rehab."

Wales and Scarlets hooker Matthew Rees looks set go under the surgeon's knife to repair the groin injury he sustained against the Wallabies.

But Wales captain Ryan Jones is excepted to resume training with the Ospreys this week after recovering from the back injury that forced him to miss the disappointing climax to the autumn.

Davies added: "It's unclear at the moment as to the extent of Matthew's problem and we are currently in consultation with specialists.

"But it is fair to say there is a strong likelihood that he will be requiring surgery.

"Ryan will link back up with the Ospreys this week and should be taking some part in training and conditioning but will obviously be managed by his region."

Winger Leigh Halfpenny will continue to receive treatment on his dead leg after joining up with the Barbarians.