Warren Gatland has selected the Scarlets front-rower for the crunch RBS Six Nations opener against Ireland at the Aviva Stadium on Sunday. His inclusion means Jenkins, who holds Wales’ international cap record with 119, drops to the bench.
And Evans is ready to make his big chance count when he runs out onto the Dublin turf this weekend.
He said: “Gethin was my idol growing up, and Paul James. I started playing rugby when they were doing really well. It was good to watch them and I’m still learning off them today. It’s really awesome to be picked ahead of a British Lion and Paul, who has more than 60 caps, so it’s given me a lot of confidence. They are really tidy people as well.
“I’ve spoken to Gethin since the announcement and he just said: ‘Your lungs are going to be burning on Sunday’. I have been given the opportunity but I have got to take it. I’m happy to get the opportunity but I will be happier if we win on Sunday.”
Evans made a winning debut against the Irish in last season’s Six Nations championship in a 23-16 triumph. He went on to start in the final round thumping of Italy, as Wales finished third in last season’s tournament on points difference.
Ireland kickoff the competition without some key men due to injury, but the 23-year-old loosehead is expecting the sternest of tests at the Aviva Stadium.
He said: “I’m just looking forward to it. Ireland bring a strong pack and are going to be a good out-fit but you are just focusing on yourself and getting your role right. You have got to get your house in order. Even with their third or fourth-choice tight-heads they are still going to have a pretty decent pack. They’ve always been known as a good out-fit.”
