Harlequins fly-half Nick Evans to retire from rugby at the end of this season

Nick Evans will retire at the end of the season. Credit: PA

Harlequins fly-half Nick Evans is to retire from rugby at the end of this season.

The 36-year-old New Zealander joined Quins in 2008, making more than 200 senior appearances and scoring over 2,200 points - a club record.

During his career at the Aviva Premiership club, Evans helped them win the league title and the European Challenge Cup.

He also won 16 caps for the All Blacks between 2004 and 2007, and is regarded among the finest overseas signings in Premiership history.

In a statement released by Quins, Evans said: "I thought leaving New Zealand was hard, but leaving the game I've played since I was eight years old - and professionally for 17 years - is tough. But when you know, you know."

"This game has taught me everything, showed me things I could never imagine and introduced me to people that are not team-mates, but family.

"I need to thank the clubs I have represented, the coaches who have helped shape the player I am today, and the fans, both in New Zealand where it all started, and here in the UK, for their support.

"I couldn't think of a better shirt and place to finish my career at than Harlequins, I want to thank the club and fans for making myself and my family feel unbelievably welcome. It has made our time so special."

Paying tribute to Evans, Quins rugby director John KIngston added: "The word 'legendary' is really over-used within the modern sporting world, but in the case of Nick Evans and his rugby playing career at Harlequins, it is the perfect description.

"From the moment he arrived in the summer of 2008, he has been at the forefront of taking the club to heights never experienced before, including being crowned Premiership champions in 2012.

"Not only has his on-field play been outstanding, but he has set the ultimate standards of professionalism in everything asked of him during his time here.

"It is a huge statement to make, but I genuinely question if any player in the history of the club has had such an impact on team performances."