Evans opts for England swansong
Former All Black flyhalf Nick Evans will conclude his career in England after signing a new three-year contract with Harlequins.
The 32-year-old’s decision to stay is a major boost for the London club and all its stakeholders as it continues to challenge at the top of the Premiership table and its pool in this year’s Heineken Cup.
Evans joined Harlequins in 2008 from Otago and has since made 106 appearances for the club during which he has scored 1,184 points including 16 tries.
Widely regarded among the best playmakers in world rugby, he made the first of his 16 appearances for New Zealand against England in 2004 and went on to represent his country in the 2007 Rugby World Cup.
Since his arrival in England, Evans has received numerous awards, the most recent being RPA Player of the Season in 2011-12.
“There is not a player, supporter or coach in the game in England, let alone Harlequins, who will not be delighted that Nick Evans has agreed to stay with us for another three years,” said Conor O’Shea, Harlequins Director of Rugby, when he announced the new contract on Thursday.
“The Premiership wants the best players playing in it and Nick is one of the very best. He contributes so much to this club both on and off the field and is the perfect role model for all young players,” O’Shea continued.
“While I know one of the main reasons he is staying with us revolves around his family, ultimately it is about his ambition to achieve things with this club.
“We have started something here and Nick wants to see it through. His decision to stay is a great early Christmas present for all Harlequins supporters!”
Commenting on his new contract, Evans said: “Myself and my family are happy to have the opportunity to stay at Harlequins. I’m looking forward to continuing to play with a great bunch of lads and to working with a special coaching staff. There is no limit to what this team can achieve and I am excited to have an influence both on and off the field.
“My decision was made easy by the ambition of this great club, the success we have had and the hunger to want more,” Evans continued.
“The support I have had from the supporters has been amazing and I will do my best to help the club stay one of the major forces in English and European rugby.”
