“Leigh is fearless, courageous and is one of the best full backs in world rugby.”

The words of interim Wales boss Rob Howley after Mr Halfpenny was named Six Nations player of the tournament.

The full-back scored 74 points to help retain the title, 69 of those coming from his golden right boot.

Halfpenny has been known for his unerring accuracy from the kicking tee and his bravery in defence, which is why the events in the Lions’ third Test against Australia were so refreshing. The man from Gorseinon has gained international recognition through stopping tries or punishing indiscretions.

According to the statistics on scrum.com Halfpenny tallied 158 metres with ball in hand in the Six Nations, made two clean breaks and beat six defenders.

He was seen as a safe full-back but one lacking the panache of Israel Dagg, Kurtley Beale, Stuart Hogg or Ben Foden.

Not any more.

On Saturday he made two clean breaks and beat three defenders on his way to setting up tries for Jonathan Sexton and George North.

Halfpenny was named as Lions player of the series and gave a huge audience a demonstration of his flair, cutting edge and running ability.

I recommend going to YouTube and typing the words ‘Halfpenny, try, Toulon’ into the search engine.

Gathering the ball as first receiver just outside his 22, he spots a gap and beats five defenders on his way to a quite magnificent score.

Granted, it was a consolation try and he had nothing to lose by chancing his arm, but it shows perfectly the talent of Halfpenny the footballer.

Last Saturday was seen as a triumph for Warren Gatland’s power game.

Perhaps the key to beating the big guns more frequently is to empower Halfpenny with ball in hand rather than just letting him put boot to leather.

Because Wales have a dashing full-back who is more than just a metronomic kicker and safe pair of hands.