Ian Evans with Paul O'Connell before the Lions' second Test against Australia in 2013. Billy Stickland / INPHO
Billy Stickland / INPHO / INPHO
BRISTOL AND WALES lock Ian Evans has quit professional rugby union on medical advice due to a knee injury.
Advertisement
The 32-year-old, a member of the British and Irish Lions squad for the tour of Australia four years ago, has admitted defeat in his bid to regain full fitness.
Evans earned the last of his 33 caps for Wales against South Africa three years ago and won three Six Nations titles — as well as two Grand Slams — in a successful career.
The former Ospreys man said: “I’m deeply saddened to end my professional career now, however, the knee injury I suffered whilst playing for Bristol now prevents me from achieving full fitness and will permanently affect my capability to perform.
“While I’m sad that my playing career has come to an end, I’m looking forward to the next chapter and exploring new opportunities. I’ve been fortunate enough to have an incredible career and I’m honoured to have had the opportunity to represent my country, winning successive Six Nations titles.
“I’m grateful to the Ospreys and Bristol — two fantastic clubs where I have met great people and hold fond memories.”
Former Wales and Lions lock Evans forced to retire at 32
BRISTOL AND WALES lock Ian Evans has quit professional rugby union on medical advice due to a knee injury.
The 32-year-old, a member of the British and Irish Lions squad for the tour of Australia four years ago, has admitted defeat in his bid to regain full fitness.
Evans earned the last of his 33 caps for Wales against South Africa three years ago and won three Six Nations titles — as well as two Grand Slams — in a successful career.
The former Ospreys man said: “I’m deeply saddened to end my professional career now, however, the knee injury I suffered whilst playing for Bristol now prevents me from achieving full fitness and will permanently affect my capability to perform.
“While I’m sad that my playing career has come to an end, I’m looking forward to the next chapter and exploring new opportunities. I’ve been fortunate enough to have an incredible career and I’m honoured to have had the opportunity to represent my country, winning successive Six Nations titles.
“I’m grateful to the Ospreys and Bristol — two fantastic clubs where I have met great people and hold fond memories.”
Homegrown stalwart Loughney and Fox-Matamua among 11 bound for Connacht exit this summer
Retiring Mike Ross starts as Leinster make sweeping changes for Glasgow’s visit to RDS
To embed this post, copy the code below on your site
bristol rugby Aviva Premiership For Evans' sake Ian Evans Rugby Wales