The poster boys of Welsh rugby past and present can provide the spark to reignite the principality's fortunes, according to James Hook.

After a dismal group-stage exit at the recent World Cup, the road to redemption for Wales begins with a daunting clash against the winners of that competition, South Africa, at the Millennium Stadium on Saturday.

Hook, 22, has been entrusted with the number 10 shirt by caretaker coach Nigel Davies, who is standing in until Warren Gatland takes the reins in little over a week's time.

One of the most intriguing aspects of the clash with an under-strength, if still powerful Springbok side will be the combination of Hook and Gavin Henson, who will play outside his younger colleague at inside centre.

It will be only the second time the Ospreys pair have featured together at international level, while for Henson, still just 25 years old, it is a chance to show that he is back on the road to reclaiming the form which lit up the Six Nations in 2005.

And Hook, who has succeeded Henson in the affections of the Welsh rugby public, believes his much-maligned colleague is showing signs of recovery after his omission from the World Cup squad.

"Gavin is coming back to his best, and I really enjoy playing alongside him," said Hook.

"He brings the best out of me, and I think I bring the best out of him.

"We understand the way each other plays. It is nice to be involved with him for the Ospreys and for Wales."

Hook is, meanwhile, setting his sights on beating the world champions on Saturday before seeing off the other World Cup finalists, England, at Twickenham in the Six Nations Championship opener on February 2.

"It could be all the sweeter if we could turn over the world champions and then go into the Six Nations and beat the (World Cup) runners-up," said Hook, who will win his 20th Wales cap at the weekend.

"That would transform Welsh rugby overnight.

"At the World Cup, we didn't get the chance to play against South Africa - so this is a great opportunity to try to change things around."

Hook is sure Wales have the team - their 22 contains another eight Ospreys - to overcome an under-strength Springboks for only the second time in their history.

He believes victory is all important but insists Wales cannot ditch the attacking brand of rugby which has served them well in the past and brought them the Six Nations Championship Grand Slam just two seasons ago.

"We have got to have a sort of cup rugby mentality, play in the right areas and take the points on offer," he said.

"But naturally we have got flair, and it would be stupid to take that away from us. I think we have got the talent to match South Africa up front and behind. We have also got a great back line, I am sure of that."

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