Gavin Evans signs new Cardiff Blues deal

CARDIFF Blues centre Gavin Evans has signed a two-year contract extension to keep him at the region until 2014.

The 27-year-old moved to the Blues from the Scarlets in 2009, having won his only Wales cap against the Pacific Islanders in 2006. Evans initially struggled to find his best form with the Blues, but has impressed in racking up 20 appearances this season.

He could be set for a more regular role next season with Casey Laulala leaving to join Munster, and Gavin Henson having been sacked by the region before a decision was taken over his contract.

Blues’ backs coach Gareth Baber said: “We have a young backline and Gavin still has a lot of good years ahead of him as a player. He’s found it tough over the last couple of seasons with a class act like Casey coming in, but what Gav has done is be totally professional and he kept pushing hard.

“He’s got a great skill level, he’s a great reader of the game and a great communicator as well.

“He’s the sort of person with the right skill set, the right work ethic and the right attitude that we want in this environment.

“For us to move forward as a group and show young players how it’s done I think Gavin shows all those characteristics.”