Evans calls time on playing career

Hooker Kat Evans has announced her retirement from rugby following Wales’ historic first WXV1 tournament in New Zealand.

Evans, 37, was part of the 30-strong Wales WXV squad that took part in the inaugural global WXV1 tournament for the best six sides in the world.

The abrasive and experienced front rower won her first cap for Wales against Japan at Cardiff Arms Park in 2021 at the age of 35. She won six Wales caps.

She played for Wales in the 2022 World Cup and was part of the Six Nations squad that finished third, Wales’ highest finish in 14 years to qualify for the WXV1.

Evans announced her retirement at club level at the end of the last Prem15s campaign with Saracens. She was part of the club’s Premier 15’s title winning side in 2018 and in 2022.

Evans, said: “I know this day would come and I can retire, knowing I have given everything to a game I started playing when I was 13. It is never easy to walk away from something you love but the time is right to do that.

“I would like to thank everyone who has supported me throughout my international career, my family, my friends and my employers. They have kept me going and pushed me to achieve my dream, without them none of this would have been possible.

“The sacrifices made have not always been easy but the experiences and life long friends have made it all worth it.  I have seen this team go from strength to strength and the investment from staff and players is second to none.

“The coaches, physios, nutritionists, S&C’s and all the staff that I have had the pleasure of working with have all been amazing and driven me to push myself further than I ever thought I could.

I can’t wait to watch this team grow because I truly believe it’s going somewhere!”

Wales head coach, Ioan Cunningham, said: “Kat has been an integral part of the squad since she was selected and has been one of the unsung heroes by always competing for her position and driving standards within the squad.

“Her professionalism, commitment and experience has proved vital and she has always been a formidable competitor at club and international level. We thank her for everything she has given the Welsh jersey.”