A front-runner for next summer's Lions tour, Halfpenny was stretchered off in the dying seconds of Wales’ dramatic 14-12 defeat to Australia at the Millennium Stadium after trying to prevent Kurtley Beale’s winning try for the Wallabies.

The Cardiff Blues star was taken to University Hospital Wales after complaining of neck pain and faces a period of treatment and rehabilitation before he can take to the field once more.

"I want to say thank you to all of the medical teams who have looked after me following my injury," said the 23-year-old, who had kicked four penalties in the game to keep Welsh hopes of victory alive.

"The paramedics, WRU and Millennium Stadium medical teams were outstanding. All of the staff at University Hospital Wales were also amazing.

"I'd also like to thank all of those who have been sending me messages of support following the injury."

The loss of Halfpenny is a further blow to Warren Gatland’s beleaguered Wales squad ahead of the RBS Six Nations, with upwards of a dozen players who would be expected to challenge for a first team place also currently on the treatment table.

Wales had to do without first-choice prop Adam Jones for the entire autumn international series, while lock Alun Wyn Jones could miss the start of the RBS Six Nations after being ruled out for 16 weeks with a shoulder injury.