Henson made his Wales debut in 2001 against Japan

The talented 23-year-old was left out of Wales' 2003 World Cup squad by former coach Steve Hansen.

But since then he has become one of the stars of the Welsh game and many feel that he will make the Lions Test team.

"I think I've become a better player and person by being left out that World Cup squad," said Henson.

"I was told by everyone that I would be going and when it turned out I wasn't it was a massive disappointment and quite depressing to be honest.

"But I've come through it quite well. I really looked at my game and became more professional - in terms of my diet and training - and I think I'm getting the rewards for it now.

"I suppose I just wanted it more."

Henson, who was the 2000 International Rugby Board Young Player of the Year, has not looked back since the World Cup though.

I don't have anything to prove. I'm just looking forward to the game on Saturday Gavin Henson

Indeed, after regional rugby was introduced in Wales, he has gone from strength to strength and played a vital role as his side won this year's Grand Slam.

"I was lucky that rugby went into regions and I had two coaches who believed in me and played me week in and week out, which I hadn't had before," Henson added.

"I was playing once a month before, which is hard."

Henson, who has been out of action with a groin injury, will play alongside Lions captain Brian O'Driscoll in Saturday's tour opener against the Bay of Plenty.

"I just enjoy the game so much I get so excited about playing I don't see any point in getting nervous," he said.

"A test spot is at the back of my mind, but I'm concentrating on this game. I haven't played for a while so need to test my match fitness.

"I don't have anything to prove. I'm just looking forward to the game on Saturday. It will be nice to start a game and I'm looking forward to playing with Brian."