Rugby World Cup: Scarlets prop Rob Evans stays in Wales camp

By Nick WebbBBC Sport Wales
Rob Evans in action for Wales against Ireland in Cardiff
Rob Evans has played twice for Wales

Scarlets prop Rob Evans is still training with Wales today despite being left out of the World Cup squad.

Evans, 23, was one of seven players dropped from the national squad by coach Warren Gatland.

The loose-head could be included in Wales' squad for the World Cup warm-up game against Italy on Saturday.

However, Scarlets flanker John Barclay has not been included in Scotland's World Cup squad. Scarlets start their Pro12 season in Glasgow on Saturday.

Wales international flanker Aaron Shingler has been passed fit and Scarlets hope that three-quarter Michael Tagicakibau (ankle) and prop Phil John (calf) will pass fitness tests.

Coach Wayne Pivac is aiming to take the region into a play-off place by the time his World Cup stars return.

The region finished sixth in the Pro12 last season after being on the fringes of the race during the run-in.

"We'd like to be in a stronger position than we were this time last year, rather than chasing the top four.

"It would be really nice to be in the top four when those players come back" Pivac told BBC Wales Sport.

The Scarlets have six players in Wales's World Cup squad: Prop Samson Lee, hooker Ken Owens, lock Jake Ball scrum-half Gareth Davies, centre Scott Williams and wing and full-back Liam Williams.