British and Irish Lions

Halfpenny had being undergoing rehabilitation on a quad injury back in the Welsh capital with the Blues medical team and had not travelled to South Africa with the rest of the squad 10 days ago.

On arrival in Johannesburg, Halfpenny underwent a post-flight recovery session with the medical team and will now play a full part in the tour.

Halfpenny will be available for selection against the Cheetahs on Saturday and will still have plenty of time to play his way into the Test team for the three-match series against the Springboks beginning on June 20.

"We are delighted that Leigh has rejoined the group," said tour manager Gerald Davies.

"Having seen the medical team this morning, they have confirmed that Leigh has arrived fully fit and so is available for selection following tomorrow night's game against the Golden Lions."

"It's just great to be back with the team," added Halfpenny.

"I've been working really hard with the Cardiff medical team and they have got me back to full fitness so I am raring to go for the Lions.

"Also, as the youngest player on tour I now have responsibility for Lenny the Lion, so Keith (Earls) officially handed over custody as soon as I walked into the team room!"

Having become only the ninth Welshman to pick up a Heineken Cup winners medal, Gethin Jenkins is now getting ready for his next challenge - holding on to his British & Irish Lions Test spot.

Lions skipper Sam Warburton says the lessons he and his Welsh colleagues learnt in Australia last summer will stand them in good stead for their return visit with Britain and Ireland's elite next month.

Tom Youngs has enjoyed a remarkable rise to the top of the British & Irish game but he won't be resting on his laurels ahead of his first Lions adventure.