Centre ace Evans extends Blues stay

The 29-year-old, capped by Wales in 2006 against the Pacific Islands, has become a fundamental part of the backline at the Arms Park.

The Swansea-born back, who has won caps at Wales Under-19 and Under-21 level and was part of the Wales Under-21 Grand Slam winning team of 2005, was named vice-captain at Blues in 2012.

"It's fantastic to finalise my future and be able to look forward to the next two seasons at Blues," said Evans, who has made 15 appearances this season in all competitions.

"I had a frustrating start to the season with injuries and setbacks, but now it's about getting a run of games together in these closing months and helping the side look to climb the league table.

"It is an exciting time to be at Blues as we look to the future and so much hard work is going on behind the scenes to get it right.

"The management team have had faith in me to offer me this new deal and I'm thankful for that. Now I need to justify that on the field over the next two years and I'm looking forward to playing for Dale McIntosh and Paul John.

He added: "I've been involved with Blues for a number of years and it's exciting to see young centres like Owen Williams and Cory Allen coming through the ranks. Hopefully my experience can benefit them and push them on.

"But, ultimately, I want to be pulling on the jersey and playing every week so I'm looking forward to that competition for midfield places next season.

"You only have to look at some of the sides in the RaboDirect PRO12 to see the depth and power they have in all positions. It brings the best out in players, you get that sharpness in everything you do, and we will have that at Blues for years to come with the squad we are looking to build."