WALES and British Lions star Gavin Henson has put a brave face on his shock omission from Sir Clive Woodward's first Test plans against the All Blacks.

But while Henson (pictured) ponders a midweek trip to the southern outpost of Invercargill to face Southland tomorrow instead, odds have shortened on England's World Cup-winning fly-half Jonny Wilkinson lining up at inside centre.

It appears a straight choice between Wilkinson and Will Greenwood as midfield partner for skipper Brian O'Driscoll in Christchurch on Saturday.

If coach Sir Clive Woodward goes with the experienced Greenwood then it is Wilkinson or Stephen Jones at fly-half.

But Woodward might already have offered a clue, ending last week's game against Wellington with Jones at fly-half and Wilkinson lining up alongside.

Henson must be wondering what he has done wrong, especially after being talked up by Woodward in recent days.

"Obviously, everyone wants to play in the Tests, so there is bound to be some disappointment at not being selected," he Henson.

"Competition was always going to be fierce and this is a squad full of world-class players. The challenge now is to play to the best of my ability, keep challenging and keep learning from the experience."

Meanwhile, Newport Gwent Dragons pair Gareth Cooper and Michael Owen line up for the Lions against Southland, Owen as captain and Cooper getting his first start on tour after admitting he has been frustrated at the delay.

Team to play Southland: G Murphy, M Cueto, O Smith, G Henson, D Hickie; R O'Gara, G Cooper; M Stevens, A Titterrell, J Hayes, S Shaw, D O'Callaghan, L Moody, M Williams, M Owen Replacements: G Bulloch, A Sheridan, S Easterby, C Cusiter, C Hodgson, T Shanklin, G D'Arcy