FORMER Dragons scrum-half Jonathan Evans has signed a new deal with the Scarlets, writes Chris Kirwan.

The 25-year-old from Bargoed made the move to Llanelli from Bath in 2016 and helped the region win the Guinness PRO12 title, coming off the bench in the semi-final win at Leinster and the final against Munster at the Aviva Stadium.

Evans, who was Argus Dragon of the Year in 2013, has made 34 appearances for the west Walians and had no hesitation in penning a fresh contract.

“I’m delighted to be staying with the Scarlets,” said the half-back, who played 83 times for the Dragons.

“I’ve really enjoyed my time with the region and being a part of the run-in, semi-final and final in my debut season was a fantastic experience.

“I’m really enjoying the style of rugby that we’re playing and it’s exciting to be challenging for a play-off place in the Guinness PRO14 and the Champions Cup.

“I’m grateful to Wayne (Pivac) and the coaches here for giving me an opportunity and I look forward to another exciting run-in to the end of the season.”

Evans battles Wales scrum-halves Gareth Davies and Ospreys-bound Aled Davies for game time and made a return from an ankle injury against the Dragons on Friday.

Head coach Pivac is happy to have retained the services of Evans to provide a selection headache.

Pivac said: “Jonny has played a lot of rugby since joining us here, he’s played well for us and he’s an attacking threat, that’s one of his strengths. Statistically he’s our best defensive nine.

“It was important that we retained Jonny and we’re very happy that he’s re-signed. Our nines in the last season have been very competitive and you need that depth in the squad.”

Flanker James Davies, prop Dylan Evans, lock/flanker Lewis Rawlins, blindside Aaron Shingler, hooker Ryan Elias, fly-half/full-back Rhys Patchell and loosehead Wyn Jones have signed Scarlets contract extensions this season while Ospreys centre Kieron Fonotia will swap clubs with Wales centre Scott Williams.