Wales international barred from playing for country gets rave reviews

Wales desperately need outside-half options but Evans is out of reach

There’s an old saying from the Bible which says “No one is a prophet in their own land.” This is certainly true of Jarrod Evans as it has been for many Welsh players before him.

For the past eight years Evans was one of the most consistent performers in the Welsh game, but despite winning eight caps for his country, the 27-year-old never did enough to persuade the national selectors to give him a run of games in the red number 10 jersey. Evans is a tremendous attacking talent, but there were always questions marks surrounding his kicking out of hand, and his game management.

Last summer he decided to leave the politics and the uncertainty of Welsh rugby behind him for a new challenge in the Gallagher Premiership, signing for Harlequins. The former Cardiff playmaker has been outstanding so far with his offensive game really suiting the way Harlequins look to attack. He’s receiving excellent reviews from Quins fans, who have been impressed by the impact he’s made in the absence of Marcus Smith.

Gatland is not stacked with options at 10 right now. He has turned to Sam Costelow as his new number one, but the Scarlets man is out injured until next year. Behind him, the likes of Will Reed and Ben Thomas have been namechecked as possible future options, while scrum-half Tomos Williams is even being considered as a back-up option.

One man who knows a thing or two about number 10s playing in England is Dragons consultant Paul Turner, who has coached over the bridge with the likes of Sale, Gloucester, Harlequins, Wasps, and now Ampthill. Turner has been extremely impressed by Evans, and reckons his move to England will make him a better player.

“From what I’ve seen Jarrod looks to have settled in really well,” said Turner.

“He’s got X-factor, and he can run a game. Normally when players move to England it all depends on whether they settle. He’s a good player and I think he’ll continue to go well. Welsh fly-halves usually go well in England.

“Jarrod has got most attributes needed to be a top class number 10. Playing in England can add a different dimension to his game.

“I love the way Jarrod takes the game to the line, and he also knows when to sit off. He’s also a competent goal kicker who reads the game well which he has to because he’s small.

“You’ve got to take the right options at the top level as a 10 otherwise you get smashed. He’s obviously got things he’s got to work on but going out of his comfort zone to England will improve his game management for sure.”

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Evans has made an instant impact at his new club with a successful shot at goal a mere two minutes from time securing a dramatic opening weekend victory over Bristol Bears at Ashton Gate. Harlequins have won three out of their opening four Premiership fixtures, and sit second in the table.

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Evans has been a big part of their success to date with the way he takes the ball to the line, and his peripheral vision which has got Harlequins’ back-line functioning. The big challenge Evans faces is whether he can hold onto the number 10 shirt with England star Marcus Smith back from Rugby World Cup duty.

“Jarrod is actually a similar type of player to Marcus Smith,” said Turner. “I honestly think he’ll challenge Marcus for the first team spot at Quins.

“I think Harlequins have found the ideal guy to challenge Marcus Smith, and also we don’t know if Smith will still be there next season given he’s been linked with a move to France. Hopefully Jarrod will get some confidence out of his performances, and continue to grow.

“He’ll be vital for Harlequins this season if they are to be successful.”