Wales centre Gavin Henson's international comeback is on hold until at least the Six Nations in February after he was ruled out of the autumn Test series with an ongoing Achilles problem.
He was due to play against world champions South Africa last Saturday, but withdrew from the Wales line-up less than 24 hours before kick-off.
Ospreys back Henson, 26, was not considered for this Friday night's meeting with Canada, and he will now also miss Tests against New Zealand on Saturday week and Australia seven days later.
Henson is expected to be sidelined for a month while he undergoes what the Welsh Rugby Union has termed "a period of rehabilitation on his problematic Achilles".
He has been troubled by the Achilles problem for several months, and last played for Wales in their Six Nations title-clinching victory over France in March.
"Consultations with UK specialists yesterday led us to conclude that an injection, followed by a specific rehabilitation protocol which will take place over the next few weeks, was the best way forward," said Wales team physiotherapist Mark Davies today.
"Gavin has now had his injection and will be out of action for approximately one month.
"He has been given an injury-specific training programme to follow in that time, which should provide a resolution to his problem."
After the autumn series, Wales are next in action on February 8th when they launch their Six Nations title defence against Scotland at Murrayfield.
At this stage though, it is far from clear whether Henson will require surgery, which could threaten his whole season and possibly participation on next summer's Lions tour to South Africa.
Henson's latest enforced absence is a major blow for Wales coach Warren Gatland.
The New Zealander is a huge admirer of Henson's ability, and he had no hesitation selecting him against the Springboks despite his lack of match practice this season.
"We are just hoping he gets fit and back and available to us," Gatland told the BBC. "Because on his day, when he is fit and playing well, he is able to compete with the best players in the world.
"The testament to Gavin Henson as a player is that any time he's started for Wales in a Six Nations game, Wales have won it. I think that's an indication of what sort of player he is."
In Henson's absence, experienced Cardiff Blues centre Tom Shanklin partnered Jamie Roberts in midfield against South Africa, with that combination now set to continue when the All Blacks arrive next week.
