The Cardiff Blues flyer injured his ankle on the eve of the Invesco Perpetual Series. But the British Lion is feeling better than ever and is ready to stake his claim for the RBS 6Nations.
Halfpenny returned to action, after two months out, as a second half replacement in the Blues 27-25 victory over the Ospreys on New Year’s Eve.
Now he is hoping to kick-on and help Wales in a massive year that culminates with the 2011 World Cup in New Zealand.
“It was a massive frustration and disappointment to get the injury, more because of the timing of it, just before the Autumn internationals and then missing some big Heineken Cup games for Cardiff Blues,” said Halfpenny.
“I was in good shape after working really hard and happy with my form, so that just made the injury worse.”
But Halfpenny was prepared for the heartbreaking lay-off after becoming an injury victim during the 2009 British Lions tour of South Africa. And the 22-year-old has used the time off wisely.
“I had to try and make the most of it in terms of my strength and conditioning,” he added.
“I have put on a bit of size, got a bit stronger and improved a few things with my running technique so hopefully the break will pay off in the long run.
“I’m probably bigger and stronger than I was then and that’s why I was so looking forward to getting back on the pitch, to see if it all comes off.
“I haven’t been able to do a great deal of running work so my speed is still something that needs some work to build back up to where I was.
“But I’m feeling great. My rehab was fine and training went without any reaction so that was a real positive.
“Obviously the key thing is to make sure I come back at the right time and didn’t rush anything. I’ve learned from the past that it’s better to wait an extra week and not risk the chance of making things worse and facing another month out.”
Now Halfpenny is determined to make up for lost time with both region and country.
“As bad as the timing was, there is still so much rugby to be played this season for both club and country.
“The Blues may be out of Europe but we’re in a decent position in the Magners League and that is something we really need to focus on in terms of winning silverware.
“Then there’s the Six Nations and of course the World Cup at the end of the year so the season is not over by a long way. Those are the times when you want to be peaking but now I’ve got to get my season going again by playing regularly.
“It’s nice to think they haven’t forgotten about me but now it’s up to me to prove that I’m still worthy of the jersey and that starts with the Blues.
“It was obviously frustrating to see someone else get the jersey but in fairness to George North, he really took his chance well.
“I was in a similar situation two years ago, when I had my opportunity following a few injuries to other players and I did everything I could to make the most of the chance.
“Now it means there’s even more competition for places with everyone pushing each other hard. That can only be a good thing for individuals and Wales but I know I’ve got a lot of hard work between now and the World Cup if I’m going to play.”
