Williams back for Munster clash

Wales have received a pre-Six Nations boost with Shane Williams back from a shoulder injury to start for the Ospreys against Munster on Friday.

The Wales winger has been out since injuring his shoulder at Benetton Treviso on 13 December.

Wales hooker Huw Bennett is on the bench after a long-term injury, along with lock Lyndon Bateman.

"We are delighted to be able to welcome them back from injury," said Ospreys coach Sean Holley of the trio.

"It will be good to have [Huw Bennett] back and challenging the very in-form Richard Hibbard.

"Shane's had a fortnight off and a slight injection in a shoulder issue that seems to be resolving... the future looks good."

Williams had a dream 2008 and was named as the International Rugby Board Player of the Year.

Wales' leading try scorer, with 44 from 61 caps, was a Lions Test player in 2005 and hopes to tour in 2009.

In a golden 2008, the 31-year-old helped Wales to the Grand Slam and Williams scored decisive tries in four of Wales' five Six Nations wins.

SHANE WILLIAMS FACT FILE

• Position: Winger
• Date of Birth: 26 February, 1977
• Born: Swansea
• Previous clubs: Amman Utd, Neath
• Favourite TV show: The Simpsons
• Favourite meal: Christmas dinner
• Did you know?: Williams preferred football as a child and supports Blackburn Rovers

He won the RBS Six Nations Player of the Year award and was voted BBC Wales Sports Personality of the Year as well as taking the IRB accolade.

Fly-half star James Hook, his club and country team-mate, is glad that Williams returns.

"It is a huge boost because Shane is a class player," said Hook. "And during this period, we need our best players on the pitch."

Williams' score in the Grand Slam decider against France - the 41st of his international career - broke Gareth Thomas' all-time Welsh try record.

The winger went on to lift the EDF Energy Cup with the Ospreys, before outshining Bryan Habana on Wales' summer tour to South Africa.

606: DEBATE
How big a boost is Williams' return?

The autumn Test series proved more challenging, but Williams was back to his best against Australia.

He scored the stunning opening try as Wales triumphed 21-18 to claim a rare Tri Nations scalp.

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