But now Henson, who had been inching his way back to full fitness with English side Saracens, might have to readjust his targets towards the 2011 World Cup having been ruled out of the opening match against England.

That would make it highly unlikely for him to feature in the remainder of the tournament as it may take Henson until the end of the season to be ready for the rigours of international rugby.

Nevertheless it is further bad news for Gatland who is already contending with a mounting injury crisis.

Winger George North and scrum-half Richie Rees’ absence may be seen as unfortunate but losing Lions props Gethin Jenkins and Adam Jones, whose regions Ospreys warned will be miss the entire Championship, could be disastrous for Wales’ hopes.