Cai Evans is determined to bounce back and repay the Dragons’ faith in him after signing a new deal with the region.
The Wales international full-back remains optimistic and undeterred despite a season marred by injury, reaffirming his commitment to the Dragons by signing a deal to stay at Rodney Parade for at least another year.
The son of Wales legend Ieuan Evans is on the path to recovery after rupturing his Achilles tendon during a European Challenge Cup clash against Pau in January.
The 25-year-old had already endured a difficult start to the season, missing the opening games due to a hamstring issue before lasting just 35 minutes in his return match against Connacht.
His campaign ended prematurely just six appearances in, but Evans is focused on a return to action by the autumn.
“I’m delighted to re-sign with the Dragons, a proud club, and I’m grateful for the opportunity once again to showcase my ability,” he said.
“I am driven to move forward from what has been a challenging season with significant injuries, and I am massively thankful for the support I’ve received from the staff and my teammates.
“What hasn’t wavered is my self-belief, and I can’t wait to get my boots back on and play in front of a rocking Rodney Parade soon.
“The drive on the pitch is to achieve more consistent and winning performances. The signings we’ve made, alongside a talented group of young players, will hopefully turn these narrow losses into wins. I can’t wait to be a part of it.”
Since arriving from the Ospreys, Evans has featured 20 times for the Dragons and accumulated 97 points.
His ability to play across the backline provides valuable flexibility for head coach Filo Tiatia, who is aiming to bolster his side’s fortunes in the upcoming United Rugby Championship campaign.
“We’re pleased that Cai is staying with us and looking forward to him coming back to full fitness,” Tiatia said.
“Cai has been unfortunate over the last 12 months, particularly as he was producing some good performances before his injury.
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“His ability to play in both the 10 and 15 jersey is an asset to our squad and he is a hard-working individual who is determined and focussed on making a successful playing return next season.”
Evans will compete for playing time in a reshuffled Dragons backline that includes fellow dual-position players Angus O’Brien and new recruit Tinus de Beer.
Rising stars like Harri Ford and Huw Anderson, as well as full-back Ewan Rosser, provide further depth.
The departures of Lloyd Evans, Jordan Williams, and Will Reed have opened opportunities for others to step up.
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