Steff Evans, the Wales international winger, has confirmed that he will be leaving Scarlets at the end of this season. The 30-year-old has had a remarkable career with the club, and his departure marks the end of an era for one of the most dynamic players in the team’s history.
A Journey of Triumph and Resilience
Evans’ journey with Scarlets began in 2014, when he made his debut against Zebre. Since then, he has enjoyed a highly successful 11-year career with the club, making 190 appearances and scoring 74 tries. His performances on the field helped cement his place as one of the top try-scorers in the United Rugby Championship (URC), making him the joint highest Welsh try-scorer in the competition’s history.
The 2016-17 season was one of Evans’ most memorable, as he played a crucial role in Scarlets’ Pro12 title victory. His exceptional form on the wing that season earned him a call-up to the Wales national team, where he made his debut during the summer tour of Tonga in 2017. Evans went on to earn 13 caps for his country, a testament to his skill and consistency at the highest level.
However, Evans’ career was not without its challenges. This season, he battled back from a serious Achilles injury, making a remarkable recovery and returning to the field in January to help Scarlets secure a win over Edinburgh. Despite his successful comeback, Evans has decided that the time has come to step away from the club and pursue new opportunities.
Reflecting on a Stellar Career
In a statement posted on Scarlets’ official website, Evans took a moment to reflect on his time with the club. He recalled many of the unforgettable moments that defined his career, both on and off the pitch.
“There have been some incredible memories,” Evans said. “Obviously winning that final in Dublin, the rugby we played that season leading up to that final was on a different level. Reaching semi-finals in Europe was also right up there.”
Evans’ contributions to Scarlets’ historic Pro12 title win in 2017 will be remembered by fans for years to come. He also highlighted some of his standout performances, including the unforgettable match against Ospreys in the lead-up to the semi-final play-off against Leinster in 2017. The win against Ospreys was a thrilling moment for both Evans and Scarlets supporters, and it remains one of the most special games in his career.
Throughout his time at Scarlets, Evans played alongside some of the best players in the world. He mentioned the influence of fellow players like Johnny McNicholl, Foxy (Jonathan Davies), Scott Williams, and Tadhg Beirne, who have all been key to Scarlets’ success over the years.
Evans also recalled the challenge of playing against some of the world’s best, citing his early career experience against legendary All Blacks player Mils Muliaina. The winger’s humility and appreciation for his teammates and opponents are evident in his reflections.
A Clubman at Heart
Scarlets head coach Dwayne Peel also paid tribute to Evans’ significant contribution to the club. Peel praised Evans as a “local boy” who had come through the ranks of the age-grade pathway to become a key figure for Scarlets.
“Steff has been a big part of this club for a long time,” Peel said. “His current ranking as one of the leading try-scorers in the history of the league says it all. He has delivered a string of memorable moments in a Scarlets jersey, some incredible tries that our supporters will cherish, especially during the season when we went on to win the title in Dublin.”
Peel highlighted Evans’ consistency, professionalism, and commitment to the club, noting that his influence has extended beyond his on-field achievements. “He has been a great clubman, a popular member of our squad, and someone who has set standards for the young players coming through,” Peel added.
The head coach also acknowledged the rarity of Evans’ achievement of playing nearly 200 games for Scarlets in the professional era. This milestone places Evans among the club’s greatest players, and his contributions will remain an integral part of Scarlets’ history.
Looking to the Future
As Evans prepares to leave Scarlets, the club and its supporters will no doubt take time to appreciate his incredible career. His departure is a bittersweet moment for the club, as they bid farewell to one of their most beloved players.
Evans’ future is still uncertain, but it is clear that he has a lot to offer both on and off the field. Whether he chooses to continue his playing career elsewhere or pursue a new challenge, fans and pundits alike will be watching to see what comes next for the talented winger.
Scarlets supporters are set to honor Evans in his final home game for the club, scheduled for this weekend. As Evans leaves the field for the last time as a Scarlet, the fans will surely show their appreciation for everything he has given to the team over the years.
A Legacy That Will Last
Steff Evans’ departure from Scarlets marks the end of a remarkable chapter in Welsh rugby. Over the course of his 11-year career, Evans has been a key figure in some of the club’s most memorable moments, and his impact on Scarlets rugby will not soon be forgotten. As he moves on to new challenges, Scarlets and their supporters will forever cherish his contributions to the club’s success.
