LEIGH Halfpenny was discharged from hospital today after being carried off during Wales’ 14-12 defeat against Australia at the Millennium Stadium.

The Wales full-back was hurt during the dramatic closing seconds on Saturday. He had earlier kicked four penalties to put Wales within sight of victory.

Halfpenny, 23, was taken to Cardiff’s University Hospital of Wales, where he underwent scans after complaining of neck pain.

“He was immediately admitted to hospital to exclude any serious neck injury, a process which thankfully has now been concluded,’’ the Welsh Rugby Union said in a statement.

Cardiff Blues player Halfpenny added: “I want to say thank you to all of the medical teams who have looked after me following my injury.”

The WRU added that Halfpenny would now undertake a period of treatment and rehabilitation to ensure a swift return to play.

Halfpenny, a major contender to tour Australia with the British and Irish Lions next summer, was Wales’ outstanding performer during an autumn series that produced losses to Argentina, Samoa, New Zealand and Australia.