Evans relishing return

Fit-again lock Ian Evans is "chomping at the bit" as Wales gear up for Thursday's World Cup clash with Japan in Cardiff.

Evans, 22, has not played a minute's rugby since suffering a dislocated shoulder scoring a try for the Ospreys on December 28 which required reconstructive surgery.

"It's been a long road but I've finally got here," he said. "I am probably in the best shape of my career. I'm ready to play some rugby."

Evans had been due to return to action against England in Wales' first warm-up Test but damaged his collarbone in training and was forced back into rehab again.

But after endless hours in the gym, Evans has been named on the bench for the Japan game and is determined to repay the coaches' faith in him.

"When I first got injured it was inconceivable that I'd be here in France," he said.

"The worst thing about being out injured is training by yourself in the gym, away from all your team-mates. It's a lonely world.

"After 10 months I'm sick of the sight of the gym.

"Obviously there is some pressure to repay the coaches for the faith they have shown in me but I have no doubts about myself whatsoever."