A DREAM come true - that is how teenager Gavin Henson describes his meteoric elevation to the Welsh senior squad in his first year of senior rugby.

It will see him become the youngest Wales outside half for over a century. The Swansea player will make his debut against the Barbarians on Sunday whether or not British Lion Neil Jenkins is fit after a minor knee operation. And he will become the youngest occupant of the famous number 10 shirt since Newport's George Llewellyn-Lloyd made his debut against Ireland as an 18-year-old back in 1896.

The main difference between the two youngsters would be the calibre of opposition. Henson will play in the Millennium Stadium's showpiece international against a Barbarians side packed with stars.

Players like Josh Kronfeld, David Wilson, Bobby Skinstad and Gary Teichmann are among the back-row players Henson may be up against. "It's a privilege," he said. "It's everyone's ambition to play for Wales. I'm delighted and looking forward to it.

"It's unbelievable to be involved in this game. I think Neil (Jenkins) will start if he's fit, but I'll get some part of the game."

With a wry grin, Henson reflected on a fairytale season which could culminate on Sunday with caps at four different levels in a year, a record that will take some beating.

He quipped: "I've done it all, haven't I? Under-19s, under-21s, the A team and now the senior squad in one season."

Although being on the same field as Jonah Lomu may be a privilege, tackling him is a different matter and Henson admits he is not looking forward to the challenge.

He said: "It's a hell of a Barbarians squad, it'll be nice playing against Lomu, well being on the same field as him anyway. I don't fancy tackling him."

While the trade-mark spiky hair has gone, Henson is still giving the impression of quiet confidence above his years, but along with the challenge of being in the Welsh squad comes dozens of different moves to learn.

"I'm nervous in training because I don't know the moves," he said. "This is my first time coming into the Welsh squad, but I know a few of the boys from club matches, so I'm comfortable with it."

There is a possibility that another Pencoed product, scrum-half Gareth Cooper could partner Henson at half-back.

"I've never played with Gareth. It'll be nice if we can both get on together. He was always a few years above me," said Henson. "It'll be good for the future of Welsh rugby."