Halfpenny returns to Blues line-up

British Lion Leigh Halfpenny will hand Cardiff Blues a boost with an early return to club duty against Northampton Saints tonight (Fri).

Halfpenny has been out of action since pulling out of the Lions tour to South Africa in June with a thigh injury.

But the Wales wing ace is back for the Blues' final pre-season friendly ahead of next week's Magners League opener.

Halfpenny, 20, said: "It was frustrating to pick up the injury and not be able to play more matches in South Africa.

"I was really pleased with last season but I can't wait to get back on the pitch. I'm young and I hope my chance will come again.

"Playing regularly for the Blues was great but getting selected for Wales and the Lions was a dream come true."

Halfpenny's Lions team-mates Jamie Roberts and Andy Powell have been rested for the clash at the Cardiff City Stadium while Tom Shanklin, Martyn Williams and Gethin Jenkins are out through injury.