Leicester Tigers have rewarded Norfolk youngster Will Evans with a new contract as his impressive development continues to show little sign of slowing.

https://twitter.com/LeicesterTigers/status/819217294853373958

The 19-year-old former Wymondham junior became the second youngest forward to debut for Tigers when he made an unexpected Aviva Premiership start in April last year.

He went on to help England win the World Rugby Under-20 Championship on home soil in the summer and was named in the end-of-tournament Dream Team.

The former Wymondham College pupil's rapid rise to prominence then continued when he was named in a 45-man England training squad at the start of the season, so that head coach Eddie Jones could assess the openside flanker's potential.

With 19 Tigers appearances, including in the European Champions Cup, and two tries to his name Evans has now extended his deal ahead of his 20th birthday on January 28.

'It's fantastic to stay at the club,' Evans, who grew up in Woodton, near Bungay, told his club's website. 'I've supported this club ever since I was at school so all I've ever wanted to do is play for Leicester Tigers.

'I hope to get a few more starts under my belt but I'm going to have to work hard in training and try to keep improving.'

His announcement follows a busy afternoon at Welford Road, with team-mates Graham Kitchener, Peter Betham and Dom Barrow also having contract extensions announced.

'All those guys have made quite an impact in top-level rugby with Tigers,' head coach Aaron Mauger, in charge of the first team following last week's sacking of long-serving director of rugby Richard Cockerill, said of the extensions.

'We're delighted to see them commit to the club and look forward to their continuing development here in a strong and competitive squad.'